Managed fiber connectivity systems

ABSTRACT

A communications connection system includes an SC fiber optic connector including a storage device having memory configured to store physical layer information. The storage device also includes at least one contact member that is electrically connected to the memory. The communications connection system also includes a fiber optic adapter module having one or more media reading interfaces. Each media reading interface is configured to read physical layer information stored on one of the fiber optic connectors received at the adapter module. Certain types of media reading interfaces extend between an internal passage of the adapter module and an external surface of the adapter module.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 13/446,607,filed Apr. 13, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,757,895, which applicationclaims the benefit of provisional application Ser. No. 61/476,032, filedApr. 15, 2011, and titled “Managed Fiber Connectivity Systems,” whichapplications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

In communications infrastructure installations, a variety ofcommunications devices can be used for switching, cross-connecting, andinterconnecting communications signal transmission paths in acommunications network. Some such communications devices are installedin one or more equipment racks to permit organized, high-densityinstallations to be achieved in limited space available for equipment.

Communications devices can be organized into communications networks,which typically include numerous logical communication links betweenvarious items of equipment. Often a single logical communication link isimplemented using several pieces of physical communication media. Forexample, a logical communication link between a computer and aninter-networking device such as a hub or router can be implemented asfollows. A first cable connects the computer to a jack mounted in awall. A second cable connects the wall-mounted jack to a port of a patchpanel, and a third cable connects the inter-networking device to anotherport of a patch panel. A “patch cord” cross connects the two together.In other words, a single logical communication link is often implementedusing several segments of physical communication media.

Network management systems (NMS) are typically aware of logicalcommunication links that exist in a communications network, buttypically do not have information about the specific physical layermedia (e.g., the communications devices, cables, couplers, etc.) thatare used to implement the logical communication links. Indeed, NMSsystems typically do not have the ability to display or otherwiseprovide information about how logical communication links areimplemented at the physical layer level.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to communications connector assembliesand connector arrangements that provide physical layer managementcapabilities. In accordance with certain aspects, the disclosure relatesto fiber optic connector assemblies and connector arrangements.

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a communications panelsystems and methods including one or more connector arrangements andconnector assemblies implemented as SC-type fiber optic connections.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the description, illustrate several aspects of the presentdisclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a portion of an example communications anddata management system in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a communicationsmanagement system that includes PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of one high-level example of a couplerassembly and media reading interface that are suitable for use in themanagement system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 4-45 illustrate an example implementation of a connector systemincluding a first example coupler assembly and fiber optic connectorshaving PLI functionality as well as PLM functionality;

FIGS. 46-69 illustrate an example implementation of a connector systemincluding a second example coupler assembly and fiber optic connectorshaving PLI functionality as well as PLM functionality; and

FIG. 70 illustrates an example connector assembly implemented as a bladeconfigured to mount to a chassis, the blade including one or morecoupler assemblies for receiving fiber optic connectors.

FIGS. 71-77 show an example implementation of a dust cap suitable foruse with any of the adapter housings disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the presentdisclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whereverpossible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout thedrawings to refer to the same or like parts.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a portion of an example communications and datamanagement system 100. The example system 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes apart of a communications network 101 along which communications signalsS1 pass. In one example implementation, the network 101 can include anInternet Protocol network. In other implementations, however, thecommunications network 101 may include other types of networks.

The communications network 101 includes interconnected networkcomponents (e.g., connector assemblies, inter-networking devices,internet working devices, servers, outlets, and end user equipment(e.g., computers)). In one example implementation, communicationssignals S1 pass from a computer, to a wall outlet, to a port ofcommunication panel, to a first port of an inter-networking device, outanother port of the inter-networking device, to a port of the same oranother communications panel, to a rack mounted server. In otherimplementations, the communications signals S1 may follow other pathswithin the communications network 101.

The portion of the communications network 101 shown in FIG. 1 includesfirst and second connector assemblies 130, 130′ at which communicationssignals S1 pass from one portion of the communications network 101 toanother portion of the communications network 101. Non-limiting examplesof connector assemblies 130, 130′ include, for example, rack-mountedconnector assemblies (e.g., patch panels, distribution units, and mediaconverters for fiber and copper physical communication media),wall-mounted connector assemblies (e.g., boxes, jacks, outlets, andmedia converters for fiber and copper physical communication media), andinter-networking devices (e.g., switches, routers, hubs, repeaters,gateways, and access points).

In the example shown, the first connector assembly 130 defines at leastone port 132 configured to communicatively couple at least a first mediasegment (e.g., cable) 105 to at least a second media segment (e.g.,cable) 115 to enable the communication signals S1 to pass between themedia segments 105, 115. The at least one port 132 of the firstconnector assembly 130 may be directly connected to a port 132′ of thesecond connector assembly 130′. As the term is used herein, the port 132is directly connected to the port 132′ when the communications signalsS1 pass between the two ports 132, 132′ without passing through anintermediate port. For example, plugging a first terminated end of apatch cable into the port 132 and a second terminated end of the patchcable into the port 132′ directly connects the ports 132, 132′.

The port 132 of the first connector assembly 130 also may be indirectlyconnected to the port 132′ of the second connector assembly 130′. As theterm is used herein, the port 132 is indirectly connected to the port132′ when the communications signals S1 pass through an intermediateport when traveling between the ports 132, 132′. For example, in oneimplementation, the communications signals S1 may be routed over onemedia segment from the port 132 at the first connector assembly 130, toa port of a third connector assembly at which the media segment iscoupled, to another media segment that is routed from the port of thethird connector assembly to the port 132′ of the second connectorassembly 130′.

Non-limiting examples of media segments include optical cables,electrical cables, and hybrid cables. The media segments may beterminated with electrical plugs, electrical jacks, fiber opticconnectors, fiber optic adapters, media converters, or other terminationcomponents. In the example shown, each media segment 105, 115 isterminated at a plug or connector 110, 120, respectively, which isconfigured to communicatively connect the media segments 105, 115. Forexample, in one implementation, the port 132 of the connector assembly130 can be configured to align ferrules of two fiber optic connectors110, 120. In another implementation, the port 132 of the connectorassembly 130 can be configured to electrically connect an electricalplug with an electrical socket (e.g., a jack). In yet anotherimplementation, the port 132 can include a media converter configured toconnect an optical fiber to an electrical conductor.

In accordance with some aspects, the connector assembly 130 does notactively manage (e.g., is passive with respect to) the communicationssignals S1 passing through port 132. For example, in someimplementations, the connector assembly 130 does not modify thecommunications signal S1 carried over the media segments 105, 115.Further, in some implementations, the connector assembly 130 does notread, store, or analyze the communications signal S1 carried over themedia segments 105, 115.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the communications anddata management system 100 also provides physical layer information(PLI) functionality as well as physical layer management (PLM)functionality. As the term is used herein, “PLI functionality” refers tothe ability of a physical component or system to identify or otherwiseassociate physical layer information with some or all of the physicalcomponents used to implement the physical layer of the system. As theterm is used herein, “PLM functionality” refers to the ability of acomponent or system to manipulate or to enable others to manipulate thephysical components used to implement the physical layer of the system(e.g., to track what is connected to each component, to traceconnections that are made using the components, or to provide visualindications to a user at a selected component).

As the term is used herein, “physical layer information” refers toinformation about the identity, attributes, and/or status of thephysical components used to implement the physical layer of thecommunications system 101. In accordance with some aspects, physicallayer information of the communications system 101 can include mediainformation, device information, and location information.

As the term is used herein, “media information” refers to physical layerinformation pertaining to cables, plugs, connectors, and other suchphysical media. In accordance with some aspects, the media informationis stored on or in the physical media, themselves. In accordance withother aspects, the media information can be stored at one or more datarepositories for the communications system, either alternatively or inaddition to the media, themselves.

Non-limiting examples of media information include a part number, aserial number, a plug or other connector type, a conductor or fibertype, a cable or fiber length, cable polarity, a cable or fiberpass-through capacity, a date of manufacture, a manufacturing lotnumber, information about one or more visual attributes of physicalcommunication media (e.g., information about the color or shape of thephysical communication media or an image of the physical communicationmedia), and an insertion count (i.e., a record of the number of timesthe media segment has been connected to another media segment or networkcomponent). Media information also can include testing or media qualityor performance information. The testing or media quality or performanceinformation, for example, can be the results of testing that isperformed when a particular segment of media is manufactured.

As the term is used herein, “device information” refers to physicallayer information pertaining to the communications panels,inter-networking devices, media converters, computers, servers, walloutlets, and other physical communications devices to which the mediasegments attach. In accordance with some aspects, the device informationis stored on or in the devices, themselves. In accordance with otheraspects, the device information can be stored at one or more datarepositories for the communications system, either alternatively or inaddition to the devices, themselves. In accordance with still otheraspects, the device information can be stored in the media segmentsattached thereto. Non-limiting examples of device information include adevice identifier, a device type, port priority data (that associates apriority level with each port), and port updates (described in moredetail herein).

As the term is used herein, “location information” refers to physicallayer information pertaining to a physical layout of a building orbuildings in which the network 101 is deployed. Location informationalso can include information indicating where each communicationsdevice, media segment, network component, or other component isphysically located within the building. In accordance with some aspects,the location information of each system component is stored on or in therespective component. In accordance with other aspects, the locationinformation can be stored at one or more data repositories for thecommunications system, either alternatively or in addition to the systemcomponents, themselves.

In accordance with some aspects, one or more of the components of thecommunications network 101 are configured to store physical layerinformation pertaining to the component as will be disclosed in moredetail herein. In FIG. 1, the connectors 110, 120, the media segments105, 115, and/or the connector assemblies 130, 130′ may store physicallayer information. For example, in FIG. 1, each connector 110, 120 maystore information pertaining to itself (e.g., type of connector, data ofmanufacture, etc.) and/or to the respective media segment 105, 115(e.g., type of media, test results, etc.).

In another example implementation, the media segments 105, 115 orconnectors 110, 120 may store media information that includes a count ofthe number of times that the media segment (or connector) has beeninserted into port 132. In such an example, the count stored in or onthe media segment is updated each time the segment (or plug orconnector) is inserted into port 132. This insertion count value can beused, for example, for warranty purposes (e.g., to determine if theconnector has been inserted more than the number of times specified inthe warranty) or for security purposes (e.g., to detect unauthorizedinsertions of the physical communication media).

One or more of the components of the communications network 101 can readthe physical layer information from one or more media segments retainedthereat. In certain implementations, one or more network componentsincludes a media reading interface that is configured to read physicallayer information stored on or in the media segments or connectorsattached thereto. For example, in one implementation, the connectorassembly 130 includes a media reading interface 134 that can read mediainformation stored on the media cables 105, 115 retained within the port132. In another implementation, the media reading interface 134 can readmedia information stored on the connectors or plugs 110, 120 terminatingthe cables 105, 115, respectively.

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, the physical layerinformation read by a network component may be processed or stored atthe component. For example, in certain implementations, the firstconnector assembly 130 shown in FIG. 1 is configured to read physicallayer information stored on the connectors 110, 120 and/or on the mediasegments 105, 115 using media reading interface 134. Accordingly, inFIG. 1, the first connector assembly 130 may store not only physicallayer information about itself (e.g., the total number of availableports at that assembly 130, the number of ports currently in use, etc.),but also physical layer information about the connectors 110, 120inserted at the ports and/or about the media segments 105, 115 attachedto the connectors 110, 120.

The physical layer information obtained by the media reading interfacemay be communicated (see PLI signals S2) over the network 101 forprocessing and/or storage. In accordance with some aspects, thecommunications network 101 includes a data network (e.g., see network218 of FIG. 2) along which the physical layer information iscommunicated. At least some of the media segments and other componentsof the data network may be separate from those of the communicationsnetwork 101 to which such physical layer information pertains. Forexample, in some implementations, the first connector assembly 130 mayinclude a plurality of “normal” ports (e.g., fiber optic adapter ports)at which connectorized media segments (e.g., optical fibers) are coupledtogether to create a path for communications signals S1. The firstconnector assembly 130 also may include one or more PLI ports 136 atwhich the physical layer information (see PLI signals S2) are passed tocomponents of the data network (e.g., to one or more aggregation points150 and/or to one or more computer systems 160).

In other implementations, however, the physical layer information may becommunicated over the communications network 101 just like any othersignal, while at the same time not affecting the communication signalsS1 that pass through the connector assembly 130 on the normal ports 132.Indeed, in some implementations, the physical layer information may becommunicated as one or more of the communication signals S1 that passthrough the normal ports 132 of the connector assemblies 130, 130′. Forexample, in one implementation, a media segment may be routed betweenthe PLI port 136 and one of the “normal” ports 132. In anotherimplementation, the media segment may be routed between the PLI port 136and a “normal” port of another connector assembly. In suchimplementations, the physical layer information may be passed along thecommunications network 101 to other components of the communicationsnetwork 101 (e.g., to another connector assembly, to one or moreaggregation points 150 and/or to one or more computer systems 160). Byusing the network 101 to communicate physical layer informationpertaining to it, an entirely separate data network need not be providedand maintained in order to communicate such physical layer information.

For example, in the implementation shown in FIG. 1, each connectorassembly 130 includes at least one PLI port 136 that is separate fromthe “normal” ports 132 of the connector assembly 130. Physical layerinformation is communicated between the connector assembly 130 and thecommunications network 101 through the PLI port 136. Components of thecommunications network 101 may be connected to one or more aggregationdevices 150 and/or to one or more computing systems 160. In the exampleshown in FIG. 1, the connector assembly 130 is connected to arepresentative aggregation device 150, a representative computing system160, and to other components of the network 101 (see looped arrows) viathe PLI port 136.

In some implementations, some types of physical layer informationpertaining to media segments can be obtained by the connector assembly130 from a user at the connector assembly 130 via a user interface(e.g., a keypad, a scanner, a touch screen, buttons, etc.). For example,physical layer information pertaining to media that is not configured tostore such information can be entered manually into the connectorassembly 130 by the user. In certain implementations, the connectorassembly 130 can provide the physical layer information obtained fromthe user to other devices or systems that are coupled to thecommunications network 101 and/or a separate data network.

In other implementations, some or all physical layer information can beobtained by the connector assembly 130 from other devices or systemsthat are coupled to the communications network 101 and/or a separatedata network. For example, physical layer information pertaining tomedia that is not configured to store such information can be enteredmanually into another device or system (e.g., at the connector assembly130, at the computer 160, or at the aggregation point 150) that iscoupled to the network 101 and/or a separate data network.

In some implementations, some types of non-physical layer information(e.g., network information) also can be obtained by one networkcomponent (e.g., a connector assembly 130, an aggregation point 150, ora computer 160) from other devices or systems that are coupled to thecommunications network 101 and/or a separate data network. For example,the connector assembly 130 may pull non-physical layer information fromone or more components of the network 101. In other implementations, thenon-physical layer information can be obtained by the connector assembly130 from a user at the connector assembly 130.

In some implementations, the connector assembly 130 is configured tomodify (e.g., add, delete, and/or change) the physical layer informationstored in or on the segment of physical communication media 105, 115(i.e., or the associated connectors 110, 120). For example, in someimplementations, the media information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media 105, 115 can be updated to include theresults of testing that is performed when a segment of physical media isinstalled or otherwise checked. In other implementations, such testinginformation is supplied to the aggregation point 150 for storage and/orprocessing. The modification of the physical layer information does notaffect the communications signals S1 passing through the connectorassembly 130.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one example implementation of acommunications management system 200 that includes PLI functionality aswell as PLM functionality. The management system 200 comprises aplurality of connector assemblies 202. The management system 200includes one or more connector assemblies 202 connected to an IP network218. The connector assemblies 202 shown in FIG. 2 illustrate variousexample implementations of the connector assemblies 130, 30′ of FIG. 1.

Each connector assembly 202 includes one or more ports 204, each ofwhich is used to connect two or more segments of physical communicationmedia to one another (e.g., to implement a portion of a logicalcommunication link for communication signals S1 of FIG. 1). At leastsome of the connector assemblies 202 are designed for use with segmentsof physical communication media that have physical layer informationstored in or on them. The physical layer information is stored in or onthe segment of physical communication media in a manner that enables thestored information, when the segment is attached to a port 204, to beread by a programmable processor 206 associated with the connectorassembly 202.

Each programmable processor 206 is configured to execute software orfirmware that causes the programmable processor 206 to carry out variousfunctions described below. Each programmable processor 206 also includessuitable memory (not shown) that is coupled to the programmableprocessor 206 for storing program instructions and data. In general, theprogrammable processor 206 determines if a physical communication mediasegment is attached to a port 204 with which that processor 206 isassociated and, if one is, to read the identifier and attributeinformation stored in or on the attached physical communication mediasegment (if the segment includes such information stored therein orthereon) using the associated media reading interface 208.

In some implementations, each of the ports 204 of the connectorassemblies 202 comprises a respective media reading interface 208 viawhich the respective programmable processor 206 is able to determine ifa physical communication media segment is attached to that port 204 and,if one is, to read the physical layer information stored in or on theattached segment (if such media information is stored therein orthereon). In other implementations, a single media reading interface 208may correspond to two or more ports 204. The programmable processor 206associated with each connector assembly 202 is communicatively coupledto each of the media reading interfaces 208 using a suitable bus orother interconnect (not shown).

In FIG. 2, four example types of connector assembly configurations 210,212, 214, and 215 are shown. In the first connector assemblyconfiguration 210 shown in FIG. 2, each connector assembly 202 includesits own respective programmable processor 206 and its own respectivenetwork interface 216 that is used to communicatively couple thatconnector assembly 202 to an Internet Protocol (IP) network 218. In someimplementations, the ports 204 of the connector assemblies 202 alsoconnect to the IP network 218. In other implementations, however, onlythe network interfaces 216 couple to the IP network 218.

In the second type of connector assembly configuration 212, a group ofconnector assemblies 202 are physically located near each other (e.g.,in a rack, rack system, or equipment closet). Each of the connectorassemblies 202 in the group includes its own respective programmableprocessor 206. However, in the second connector assembly configuration212, some of the connector assemblies 202 (referred to here as“interfaced connector assemblies”) include their own respective networkinterfaces 216 while some of the connector assemblies 202 (referred tohere as “non-interfaced connector assemblies”) do not. Thenon-interfaced connector assemblies 202 are communicatively coupled toone or more of the interfaced connector assemblies 202 in the group vialocal connections. In this way, the non-interfaced connector assemblies202 are communicatively coupled to the IP network 218 via the networkinterface 216 included in one or more of the interfaced connectorassemblies 202 in the group. In the second type of connector assemblyconfiguration 212, the total number of network interfaces 216 used tocouple the connector assemblies 202 to the IP network 218 can bereduced. Moreover, in the particular implementation shown in FIG. 2, thenon-interfaced connector assemblies 202 are connected to the interfacedconnector assembly 202 using a daisy chain topology (though othertopologies can be used in other implementations and embodiments).

In the third type of connector assembly configuration 214, a group ofconnector assemblies 202 are physically located near each other (e.g.,within a rack, rack system, or equipment closet). Some of the connectorassemblies 202 in the group (also referred to here as “master” connectorassemblies 202) include both their own programmable processors 206 andnetwork interfaces 216, while some of the connector assemblies 202 (alsoreferred to here as “slave” connector assemblies 202) do not includetheir own programmable processors 206 or network interfaces 216. Each ofthe slave connector assemblies 202 is communicatively coupled to one ormore of the master connector assemblies 202 in the group via one or morelocal connections. The programmable processor 206 in each of the masterconnector assemblies 202 is able to carry out the PLM functions for boththe master connector assembly 202 of which it is a part and any slaveconnector assemblies 202 to which the master connector assembly 202 isconnected via the local connections. As a result, the cost associatedwith the slave connector assemblies 202 can be reduced. In theparticular implementation shown in FIG. 2, the slave connectorassemblies 202 are connected to a master connector assembly 202 in astar topology (though other topologies can be used in otherimplementations and embodiments).

In the fourth type of connector assembly configuration 215, a group ofconnector assemblies (e.g., distribution modules) 202 are housed withina common chassis or other enclosure. Each of the connector assemblies202 in the configuration 215 includes their own programmable processors206. In the context of this configuration 215, the programmableprocessors 206 in the connector assemblies 202 are “slave” processors206. Each of the slave programmable processors 206 in the group iscommunicatively coupled to a common “master” programmable processor 217(e.g., over a backplane included in the chassis or enclosure). Themaster programmable processor 217 is coupled to a network interface 216that is used to communicatively couple the master programmable processor217 to the IP network 218.

In the fourth configuration 215, each slave programmable processor 206is configured to manage the media reading interfaces 208 to determine ifphysical communication media segments are attached to the port 204 andto read the physical layer information stored in or on the attachedphysical communication media segments (if the attached segments havesuch information stored therein or thereon). The physical layerinformation is communicated from the slave programmable processor 206 ineach of the connector assemblies 202 in the chassis to the masterprocessor 217. The master processor 217 is configured to handle theprocessing associated with communicating the physical layer informationread from by the slave processors 206 to devices that are coupled to theIP network 218.

In accordance with some aspects, the communications management system200 includes functionality that enables the physical layer informationcaptured by the connector assemblies 202 to be used by application-layerfunctionality outside of the traditional physical-layer managementapplication domain. That is, the physical layer information is notretained in a PLM “island” used only for PLM purposes but is insteadmade available to other applications. For example, in the particularimplementation shown in FIG. 2, the management system 200 includes anaggregation point 220 that is communicatively coupled to the connectorassemblies 202 via the IP network 218.

The aggregation point 220 includes functionality that obtains physicallayer information from the connector assemblies 202 (and other devices)and stores the physical layer information in a data store. Theaggregation point 220 can be used to receive physical layer informationfrom various types of connector assemblies 202 that have functionalityfor automatically reading information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media. Also, the aggregation point 220 andaggregation functionality 224 can be used to receive physical layerinformation from other types of devices that have functionality forautomatically reading information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media. Examples of such devices include end-userdevices—such as computers, peripherals (e.g., printers, copiers, storagedevices, and scanners), and IP telephones—that include functionality forautomatically reading information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media.

The aggregation point 220 also can be used to obtain other types ofphysical layer information. For example, in this implementation, theaggregation point 220 also obtains information about physicalcommunication media segments that is not otherwise automaticallycommunicated to an aggregation point 220. This information can beprovided to the aggregation point 220, for example, by manually enteringsuch information into a file (e.g., a spreadsheet) and then uploadingthe file to the aggregation point 220 (e.g., using a web browser) inconnection with the initial installation of each of the various items.Such information can also, for example, be directly entered using a userinterface provided by the aggregation point 220 (e.g., using a webbrowser).

The aggregation point 220 also includes functionality that provides aninterface for external devices or entities to access the physical layerinformation maintained by the aggregation point 220. This access caninclude retrieving information from the aggregation point 220 as well assupplying information to the aggregation point 220. In thisimplementation, the aggregation point 220 is implemented as “middleware”that is able to provide such external devices and entities withtransparent and convenient access to the PLI maintained by the accesspoint 220. Because the aggregation point 220 aggregates PLI from therelevant devices on the IP network 218 and provides external devices andentities with access to such PLI, the external devices and entities donot need to individually interact with all of the devices in the IPnetwork 218 that provide PLI, nor do such devices need to have thecapacity to respond to requests from such external devices and entities.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a network management system (NMS) 230includes PLI functionality 232 that is configured to retrieve physicallayer information from the aggregation point 220 and provide it to theother parts of the NMS 230 for use thereby. The NMS 230 uses theretrieved physical layer information to perform one or more networkmanagement functions. In certain implementations, the NMS 230communicates with the aggregation point 220 over the IP network 218. Inother implementations, the NMS 230 may be directly connected to theaggregation point 220.

As shown in FIG. 2, an application 234 executing on a computer 236 alsocan use the API implemented by the aggregation point 220 to access thePLI information maintained by the aggregation point 220 (e.g., toretrieve such information from the aggregation point 220 and/or tosupply such information to the aggregation point 220). The computer 236is coupled to the IP network 218 and accesses the aggregation point 220over the IP network 218.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, one or more inter-networking devices 238used to implement the IP network 218 include physical layer information(PLI) functionality 240. The PLI functionality 240 of theinter-networking device 238 is configured to retrieve physical layerinformation from the aggregation point 220 and use the retrievedphysical layer information to perform one or more inter-networkingfunctions. Examples of inter-networking functions include Layer 1, Layer2, and Layer 3 (of the OSI model) inter-networking functions such as therouting, switching, repeating, bridging, and grooming of communicationtraffic that is received at the inter-networking device.

The aggregation point 220 can be implemented on a standalone networknode (e.g., a standalone computer running appropriate software) or canbe integrated along with other network functionality (e.g., integratedwith an element management system or network management system or othernetwork server or network element). Moreover, the functionality of theaggregation point 220 can be distribute across many nodes and devices inthe network and/or implemented, for example, in a hierarchical manner(e.g., with many levels of aggregation points). The IP network 218 caninclude one or more local area networks and/or wide area networks (e.g.,the Internet). As a result, the aggregation point 220, NMS 230, andcomputer 236 need not be located at the same site as each other or atthe same site as the connector assemblies 202 or the inter-networkingdevices 238.

Also, power can be supplied to the connector assemblies 202 usingconventional “Power over Ethernet” techniques specified in the IEEE802.3af standard, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Insuch an implementation, a power hub 242 or other power supplying device(located near or incorporated into an inter-networking device that iscoupled to each connector assembly 202) injects DC power onto one ormore power cables (e.g., a power wire included in a copper twisted-paircable) used to connect each connector assembly 202 to the IP network218.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one example connection system 1800including a connector assembly 1810 configured to collect physical layerinformation from at least one segment of physical communications media.The example connector assembly 1810 of FIG. 3 is configured to connectsegments of optical physical communications media in a physical layermanagement system. The connector assembly 1810 includes a fiber opticadapter defining at least one connection opening 1811 having a firstport end 1812 and a second port end 1814. A sleeve (e.g., a splitsleeve) 1803 is arranged within the connection opening 1811 of theadapter 1810 between the first and second port ends 1812, 1814. Eachport end 1812, 1814 is configured to receive a connector arrangement aswill be described in more detail herein.

A first example segment of optical physical communication media includesa first optical fiber 1822 terminated by a first connector arrangement1820. A second example segment of optical physical communication mediaincludes a second optical fiber 1832 terminated by a second connectorarrangement 1830. The first connector arrangement 1820 is plugged intothe first port end 1812 and the second connector arrangement 1830 isplugged into the second port end 1814. Each fiber connector arrangement1820, 1830 includes a ferrule 1824, 1834 through which optical signalsfrom the optical fiber 1822, 1832, respectively, pass.

The ferrules 1824, 1834 of the connector arrangements 1820, 1830 arealigned by the sleeve 1803 when the connector arrangements 1820, 1830are inserted into the connection opening 1811 of the adapter 1810.Aligning the ferrules 1824, 1834 provides optical coupling between theoptical fibers 1822, 1832. In some implementations, each segment ofoptical physical communication media (e.g., each optical fiber 1822,1832) carries communication signals (e.g., communications signals S1 ofFIG. 1). The aligned ferrules 1824, 1834 of the connector arrangements1820, 1830 create an optical path along which the communication signals(e.g., signals S1 of FIG. 1) may be carried.

In some implementations, the first connector arrangement 1820 mayinclude a storage device 1825 that is configured to store physical layerinformation (e.g., an identifier and/or attribute information)pertaining to the segment of physical communications media (e.g., thefirst connector arrangement 1820 and/or the fiber optic cable 1822terminated thereby). In some implementations, the connector arrangement1830 also includes a storage device 1835 that is configured to storeinformation (e.g., an identifier and/or attribute information)pertaining to the second connector arrangement 1830 and/or the secondoptic cable 1832 terminated thereby.

In one implementation, each of the storage devices 1825, 1835 isimplemented using an EEPROM (e.g., a PCB surface-mount EEPROM). In otherimplementations, the storage devices 1825, 1835 are implemented usingother non-volatile memory device. Each storage device 1825, 1835 isarranged and configured so that it does not interfere or interact withthe communications signals communicated over the media segments 1822,1832.

In accordance with some aspects, the adapter 1810 is coupled to at leasta first media reading interface 1816. In certain implementations, theadapter 1810 also is coupled to at least a second media interface 1818.In some implementations, the adapter 1810 is coupled to multiple mediareading interfaces. In certain implementations, the adapter 1810includes a media reading interface for each port end defined by theadapter 1810. In other implementations, the adapter 1810 includes amedia reading interface for each connection opening 1811 defined by theadapter 1810. In still other implementations, the adapter 1810 includesa media reading interface for each connector arrangement that theadapter 1810 is configured to receive. In still other implementations,the adapter 1810 includes a media reading interface for only a portionof the connector arrangement that the adapter 1810 is configured toreceive.

In some implementations, at least the first media reading interface 1816is mounted to a printed circuit board 1815. In the example shown, thefirst media reading interface 1816 of the printed circuit board 1815 isassociated with the first port end 1812 of the adapter 1810. In someimplementations, the printed circuit board 1815 also can include thesecond media reading interface 1818. In one such implementation, thesecond media reading interface 1818 is associated with the second portend 1814 of the adapter 1810.

The printed circuit board 1815 of the connector assembly 1810 can becommunicatively connected to one or more programmable processors (e.g.,processors 216 of FIG. 2) and/or to one or more network interfaces(e.g., network interfaces 216 of FIG. 2). The network interface may beconfigured to send the physical layer information (e.g., see signals S2of FIG. 1) to a physical layer management network (e.g., seecommunications network 101 of FIG. 1 or IP network 218 of FIG. 2). Inone implementation, one or more such processors and interfaces can bearranged as components on the printed circuit board 1815. In anotherimplementation, one or more such processor and interfaces can bearranged on separate circuit boards that are coupled together. Forexample, the printed circuit board 1815 can couple to other circuitboards via a card edge type connection, a connector-to-connector typeconnection, a cable connection, etc.

When the first connector arrangement 1820 is received in the first portend 1812 of the adapter 1810, the first media reading interface 1816 isconfigured to enable reading (e.g., by the processor) of the informationstored in the storage device 1825. The information read from the firstconnector arrangement 1820 can be transferred through the printedcircuit board 1815 to a physical layer management network, e.g., network101 of FIG. 1, network 218 of FIG. 2, etc. When the second connectorarrangement 1830 is received in the second port end 1814 of the adapter1810, the second media reading interface 1818 is configured to enablereading (e.g., by the processor) of the information stored in thestorage device 1835. The information read from the second connectorarrangement 1830 can be transferred through the printed circuit board1815 or another circuit board to the physical layer management network.

In some such implementations, the storage devices 1825, 1835 and themedia reading interfaces 1816, 1818 each comprise three (3) leads—apower lead, a ground lead, and a data lead. The three leads of thestorage devices 1825, 1835 come into electrical contact with three (3)corresponding leads of the media reading interfaces 1816, 1818 when thecorresponding media segment is inserted in the corresponding port. Incertain example implementations, a two-line interface is used with asimple charge pump. In still other implementations, additional leads canbe provided (e.g., for potential future applications). Accordingly, thestorage devices 1825, 1835 and the media reading interfaces 1816, 1818may each include four (4) leads, five (5) leads, six (6) leads, etc.

FIGS. 4-45 illustrate an example implementation of a connector system1000 that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality. One example connector assembly on which the connectorsystem 1000 can be implemented is a bladed chassis (see FIG. 70). Theconnector system 1000 includes at least one example communicationscoupler assembly 1200 and at least two connector arrangements 1100.

The communications coupler assembly 1200 is configured to be mounted toa connector assembly, such as a communications blade or a communicationspanel. One or more connector arrangements 1100, which each terminate asegment of communications media 1010 (FIG. 5), are configured tocommunicatively couple to other segments of physical communicationsmedia at the coupler assembly 1200 (e.g., see FIGS. 43-45). Accordingly,communications data signals carried by a media segment 1010 terminatedby a first connector arrangement 1100 can be propagated to another mediasegment (e.g., terminated by a second connector arrangement 1100)through the communications coupler assembly 1200.

In accordance with some aspects, each communications coupler assembly1200 is configured to form a single link between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, each communications coupler assembly1200 can define a single passage at which a first connector arrangement1100A is coupled to a second connector arrangement 1100B (see FIG. 4).In accordance with other aspects, however, each communications couplerassembly 1200 is configured to form two or more links between segmentsof physical communications media (e.g., see FIGS. 46-69).

In accordance with some aspects, each connector arrangement 1100 isconfigured to terminate a single segment of physical communicationsmedia. For example, each connector arrangement 1100 can include a singleconnector 1110 and boot 1150 that terminate a single optical fiber 1010or a single electrical conductor. In one example implementation, eachconnector arrangement 1100 includes a single SC-type fiber opticconnector 1110 that terminates a single optical fiber 1010 (see FIG. 5).In other implementations, the connector 1110 can be an LC-type, anST-type, an FC-type, an LX.5-type, etc.

In accordance with other aspects, each connector arrangement 1100 mayincludes two or more connectors 1110, each of which terminates a singlesegment of physical communications media. For example, each connectorarrangement 1100 may define a duplex fiber optic connector arrangementincluding two connectors 1110, each of which terminates an optical fiber1010. In accordance with still other aspects, each connector 1110 mayterminate a plurality of physical media segments. In still othersystems, other types of connector arrangements (e.g., electricalconnector arrangements) can be secured to the communications couplerassembly 1200 or to a different type of coupler assembly.

An example implementation of connector arrangements 1100 is shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B. FIG. 5A is a front perspective view an example fiberoptic connector arrangement 1100 including an SC-type connector 1110.The connector 1110 includes a connector body 1114 protecting a ferrule1112, which retains an optical fiber 1015 of a media segment 1010. Aboot 1120 is secured to the connector 1110 to provide bend protection tothe optical fiber 1015. The housing 1114 defines two slots 1116 onopposite sides thereof and a key 1118 located on a side perpendicular tothe sides containing the slots 1116. The key 1118 is configured toengage a keyway of coupler assembly 1200 to properly position theconnector 1110 at a port of the coupler assembly 1200.

FIG. 5B is an exploded view of the connector arrangement 1100. Ingeneral, the housing 1114 includes an inner portion 1140 and an outerportion 1150 that is mounted to slide over the inner portion 1140 alonga longitudinal axis of the ferrule 1112. The ferrule 1112, a guide 1160,and a hub 1167 are received within the inner housing portion 1140. Theguide 1160 includes a key 1163 that is located on an outer surface ofthe guide 1160. The key 1163 is designed to fit into a slot 1149 definedin the inner housing portion 1140. When the key 1163 is located withinthe slot 1149, the guide 1160 is firmly locked into the inner housingportion 1140.

The optical fiber 1015 enters into the connector 1110 through the guide1160. The guide 1160 has an input opening 1161 at one end to receive theoptical fiber 1015 and a hub opening 1162 at its other end. The inputopening 1161 of the guide 1160 has a smaller diameter than the hubopening 1162. Located within the guide 1160 is tubing 1165, whichsurrounds the outer diameter of the optical fiber 1015. Tubing 1165 aidsin guiding the optical fiber 1015 into the ferrule 1112. Within theguide 1160 is a coil spring 1166, which surrounds the tubing 1165. Thespring 1166 is operative in allowing the optical fiber 1015 a smallamount of travel when tensioned.

The hub 1167 connects to the inner housing portion 1140. The hub 1167fits within the guide 1160 through the input opening 1161 of the guide1160. The hub 1167 is operative in retaining spring 1166 in the guide1160. The hub 1167 receives the ferrule 1112, which firmly holds theoptical fiber 1015 in place. In one example implementation, the hub 1167has four tabs or keys 1168 spaced ninety degrees apart from each other.

One example implementation of an inner portion 1140 is shown in FIGS.11-13. The example inner portion 1140 includes a body 1141 configured tohold the ferrule 1112 within an axial bore 1142. Two sets of parallelridges 1145 extend outwardly from opposite sides 1143 of the innerportion 1140. In some implementations, the ridges 1145 are generallyperpendicular to the axial bore 1142. The ridges 1145 define detents1146 on the opposite sides 1143. These ridges 1145 and detents 1146enable the connector 1110 to be releasably locked to retaining clips ofa coupler assembly (described in more detail herein).

One example implementation of an outer portion 1150 is shown in FIGS.14-16. The outer portion 1150 includes a body 1151 defining athrough-passage 1152 that is sized and configured to receive the innerportion 1140. The outer housing portion 1150 defines an open front endthrough which the ferrule 112 extends. Opposite sides 1153 of the body1151 define cut-outs 1154 that form slots 1116. When the inner portion1140 is placed within the outer portion 1150, the raised ridges 1145 ofthe inner portion 1140 are exposed through slots 1116. Each of the sidewalls 1153 also defines a ramp or cam surface 1155 in a region of thecutout 1154 and positioned adjacent the respective ridge 1145. The key1118 is formed on a different side of the outer portion 1150 from thecutouts 1154.

The outer portion 1150 also includes a knurled handle or other gripsection 1156. In certain implementations, the grip section 1156 isprovided at a rear of the outer portion 1150. In some implementations,the grip section 1156 extends over all of the sides of the body 1151. Inother implementations, the grip section 1156 is formed on two oppositesides of the outer portion (e.g., opposite sides 1153). In the exampleshown, a ridge 1157 or other grip member may be provided at the gripsection 1156.

Additional details regarding an example connector 1110 can be found inU.S. Pat. No. 5,317,663, issued May 31, 1994 to Beard et al., and titled“One-Piece SC Adapter,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety.

Each connector arrangement 1100 is configured to store physical layerinformation. For example, a storage device 1130 may be installed on orin the connector body 1114 of the fiber optic connector 1110. Oneexample storage device 1130 includes a printed circuit board 1131 (FIG.8) on which memory circuitry can be arranged. Electrical contacts 1132also may be arranged on the printed circuit board 1131 for interactionwith a media reading interface of the communications coupler assembly1200 (described in more detail herein). In one example implementation,the storage device 1130 includes an EEPROM circuit 1133 arranged on theprinted circuit board 1131 (see (FIG. 10). In other implementations,however, the storage device 1130 can include any suitable type ofnon-volatile memory.

The storage device 1130 shown in FIGS. 8-10 includes generally planarcontacts 1132 positioned on a generally planar circuit board 1131.Memory 1133 (FIG. 10) of the storage device 1130, which is located onthe non-visible side of the board in FIG. 8, is accessed by engaging thetops of the contacts 1132 with one or more electrically conductivecontact members of a media reading interface (e.g., contact member 1241of FIG. 34). In certain implementations, the contact member 1241 slidesor wipes across the contacts 1132 (see FIGS. 44-45).

In some implementations, the contacts 1132 have the same length. Inother implementations, one or more of the contacts 1132 may havedifferent lengths. In some implementations, the contacts 1132 have thesame shape. For example, in some implementation, the contacts 1132 maybe generally rounded at one or both ends of the contact members. Inother implementations, one or more of the contacts 1132 may havedifferent shapes. For example, in certain implementations, some of thecontacts 1132 are straight and some of the contacts 1132 are generallyL-shaped. In one example implementation, the L-shaped contacts may belonger than the rounded end contacts. In some implementations, thecontacts 1132 may be positioned in a staggered configuration. In otherimplementations, the contacts 1132 may be laterally aligned.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 14-16, the outer portion 1150 of the connectorbody 1114 may define a recessed section or cavity 1115 in which thestorage device 1130 may be positioned. In some implementations, thecavity 1115 is provided on an opposite side of the outer portion 1150from the key 1118. In another implementation, the cavity 1115 may beprovided on the same side as the key 118. In other implementations, thecavity 1115 may be provided on the inner portion 1140 or elsewhere onthe connector body 1114. In some implementations, the cavity 1115 isformed at a front, center location of the connector side opposite thekey 1118. In other implementations, the cavity 1115 is formed at a frontlocation offset from the center (e.g., see FIG. 15). For example, FIG.17 shows an example storage device 1130 mounted offset from alongitudinal axis L of the connector 1110.

In some implementations, the cavity 1115 has a stepped configuration1160 to facilitate positioning of the storage device 1130. In theexample shown, the cavity 1115 is formed by a depression 1161 in a sideof the outer portion 1150. The depression 1161 is generally sized andconfigured to receive the printed circuit board 1131 of the storagedevice 1130. For example, the depression 1161 may be sufficiently deepto enable electrical contacts 1132 provided on the circuit board 1131 tobe generally flush with the side of the outer portion 1150 (see FIG. 6).In certain implementations, a well 1162 may be formed at one location inthe depression 1161. The well 1162 is sufficiently deep to accommodatean EEPROM circuit 1133 coupled to one side of the circuit board 1131.

In certain implementations, one or more ridges 1164 are provided in thedepression 1161 to facilitate mounting the storage device 1130 withinthe cavity 1115. For example, in some implementations, the ridges 1164may increase the surface area over which an adhesive may be applied tosecure the storage device 1130 within the cavity 1115. In the exampleshown, the ridges 1164 are rectangularly shaped (see FIGS. 14-16). Inother implementations, however, the ridges 1164 may form bumps, peaks,or some other texture within the depression 1161 to increase the surfacearea over which adhesive is applied.

The inner portion 1140 of the connector body 1114 is configured toaccommodate at least part of the cavity 1115 defined in the outerportion 1150. For example, the inner portion 1140 may defines a channel1148 that aligns with the cavity 1115 when the inner portion 1140 ismounted within the outer portion 1150. In some implementations, thechannel 1148 is sized to receive the portion of the outer body 1150defining the well 1162 within the cavity 1115. In the example shown inFIGS. 11-13, the channel 1148 is formed at a location offset from acenter axis of the inner portion 1140. The channel 1148 is sufficientlylong to accommodate movement of the well 1162 when the outer portion1150 is moved relative to the inner portion 1140.

FIGS. 17-20 show the storage device 1130 installed on an exampleconnector 1110. In some implementations, a cover can be positioned overthe storage device 1130 to enclose the storage device 1130 within thecavity 1115 of the connector 1110. In other implementations, the storagedevice 1130 is left uncovered and exposed. As shown in FIG. 18, thestorage device 1130 may be mounted flush with an external surface of theconnector 1110. In some implementations, the storage device 1130 ispositioned offset from a front of the connector 1110 so that the frontof the connector 1110 forms a deflection surface 1159 (see FIG. 18). Inother implementations, the storage device 1130 may be positioned toextend over or through the front section 1159 of the connector 1110.

FIGS. 19 and 20 show how the storage device 1130 affects the interactionbetween the inner portion 1140 and the outer portion 1150 of theconnector housing 1114. At least the memory 1133 positioned in the well1162 of the cavity 1115 protrudes from the outer portion 1150 of theconnector housing 1114 towards the inner portion 1140. The memory 1133aligns with and extends into the channel 1148 defined by the innerportion 1140 of the connector housing 1114. The well 1162 slides withinthe channel 1148 as the outer portion 1150 is moved axially relative tothe inner portion 1140 of the connector housing 1114. In certainimplementations, the section of the outer housing portion 1150 definingthe entire cavity 1115 protrudes inwardly and is accommodated by thechannel 1148.

FIGS. 21-33 show one example implementation of a communications couplerassembly 1200 implemented as a fiber optic adapter. The examplecommunications coupler assembly 1200 includes an adapter housing 1210defining one or more passages 1215 configured to align and interface twoor more fiber optic connectors 1110 (e.g., see FIG. 4). In other exampleimplementations, however, one or more passages 1215 can be configured tocommunicatively couple together a fiber optic connector 1110 with amedia converter (not shown) to convert the optical data signals intoelectrical data signals, wireless data signals, or other such datasignals. In still other implementations, the communications couplerassembly 1200 can include an electrical termination block that isconfigured to receive punch-down wires, electrical plugs (e.g., forelectrical jacks), or other types of electrical connectors.

The example adapter housing 1210 shown in FIGS. 23-27 is formed fromopposing side walls 1211 interconnected by first and second end walls1212. The side walls 1211 and end walls 1212 each extend between a frontend and a rear end. The adapter housing 1210 defines one or more axialpassages 1215 extending between the front and rear ends. Each end ofeach passage 1215 defines a port that is configured to receive aconnector 1110. In the example shown, the adapter housing 1210 defines asingle axial passage 1215. In other implementations, however, theadapter housing 1210 may define one, two, three, six, eight, ten,twelve, sixteen, or even more axial passages 1215. Sleeves (e.g., splitsleeves) 1206 are positioned within the axial passages 1215 to receiveand align the ferrules 1112 of fiber optic connectors 1110 (see FIG.22).

One or more ports leading to the axial passage 1215 are formed at thefront and rear of the adapter housing 1210. One or more guides 1216 maybe defined at an interior of adapter housing 1210. The guides 1216extend longitudinally along the interior corners of the axial passage1215. The guides 1216 cooperate with the outer surface of a fiber opticconnector housing 1114 to receive the connector 1110 within the axialpassage 1215. In certain embodiments, the guides 1216 may define rampedentry surfaces to facilitate insertion of the connector housing 1114within the adapter passage 1215. One of the end walls 1212 of theadapter housing 1210 defines at least one keyway 1218 sized and shapedto receive a corresponding key 1118 of the SC-type fiber optic connector1110 (see FIG. 5). In certain implementations, a keyway 1218 is definedin the end wall 1212 at both ports (see FIG. 24).

Flanges 1217 extend outwardly from the side walls 1211 of the adapterhousing 1210. The flanges 1217 aid in supporting the adapter housing1210 on or against a planar surface, such as that of a bulkhead. In someimplementations, one or both side walls 1211 of the adapter housing 1210also include a flexible cantilever arm defining outwardly protrudingtabs that are configured to cooperate with the flanges 1217 to capturethe adapter housing 1210 against a bulkhead. In other implementations,the side walls 1211 of the adapter housing 1210 define solid surfaces.In still other implementations, recesses may be provided in the sidewalls 1211 to permit the use of alternative fasteners, such as aflexible clip.

In some implementations, the flanges 1217 are sufficiently long toaccommodate fastener openings 1219. In certain implementations, anannular wall may be provided on one end of the flanges 1217 to demarcatethe fastener openings 1219. In some implementations, fasteners (e.g.,screws, snaps, nails, bolts, rivets, etc.) may be inserted into thefastener openings 1219 to secure the adapter housing 1210 to a surface.In other implementations, fasteners 1255 may be inserted into thefastener openings 1219 to secure a circuit board 1250 or other structureto the adapter housing 1210. In certain implementations, the circuitboard fasteners 1255 may extend completely through the flanges 1217 tosecure the circuit board 1250 to one end of the adapter housing 1210 andto secure the other end of the adapter housing 1210 to another surface.

A ferrule alignment arrangement 1230 is located in the axial passage1215 of the adapter housing 1210. One example ferrule alignmentarrangement 1230 is shown in FIG. 28. The ferrule alignment arrangement1230 includes a sleeve mount arrangement 1231 and a ferrule sleeve 1206,which is configured to be inserted within the sleeve mount arrangement1231. The sleeve mount arrangement 1231 defines an axial bore 1234 inwhich the ferrule sleeve 1206 may be positioned. In certain embodiments,the sleeve 1206 may also include a slit for allowing the sleeve 1206 tocompress, elastically reducing its diameter during insertion into theaxial bore 1234. The slit also may enable the sleeve 1206 to expand toreceive a ferrule 1112 of a connector 1110.

In some implementations, the sleeve mount arrangement 1231 includes afirst piece 1232 and a second piece 1233. In the example shown in FIG.28, the pieces 1231, 1232 include alignment structures 1238. In otherimplementations, however, the sleeve mount arrangement 1231 can beformed as a single-piece. Each piece 1232, 1233 of the sleeve mountarrangement 1231 includes resilient fingers 1235 defining latching hooks1236. The latching hooks 1236 are configured to cooperate with thehousing 1114 of the SC-type connector 1110 to releasably latch theconnectors 1110 to the adapter housing 1210.

When a first connector 1110 is fully inserted into the adapter housing1210 at one of the ports, the flexible latching hooks 1236 of the sleevemount arrangement 1231 engage the slots 1116 defined in the outerportion 1150 of the connector housing 1114 to releasably hold connector1110 at the adapter port. For example, the latching hooks 1236 may flexover ridges 1145 and snap into the detents 1146 of the inner portion1140 of the connector housing 1114. When properly positioned within theaxial passage 1215, the connector ferrule 1112 is received within theferrule sleeve 1206 inside the sleeve mount 1230. When a secondconnector 1110 is inserted into the adapter housing 1210 at the opposingport, an optical connection is formed between the optical fiber 1015 ofthe first connector 1110 and the optical fiber of the second connector1110 through the abutting contact faces of the ferrules 1112 within theferrule sleeve 1206.

When removing one of the fiber optic connectors 1110, the slidable outerportion 1150 of the connector housing 1114 is slid axially relative tothe inner portion 1140 of the connector housing 1114 away from theopposing connector until the flexible latching hooks 1236 of the adapterhousing 1210 are released from the slots 1116 defined on the outerportion 1150 of the connector housing 1114.

In some implementations, at least a portion of the ferrule alignmentarrangement 1230 is formed as a single piece with the adapter housing1210. For example, in some implementations, one of the end walls 1212 ofthe adapter housing 1210 defines an opening 1213 leading to the axialpassage 1215. The opening 1213 in the end wall 1212 may enable aninjection molding machine access to the axial passage to form theferrule alignment arrangement 1230. In other implementations, theferrule alignment arrangement 1230 is formed separately from the adapterhousing 1210 and subsequently inserted into the axial passage 1215through the opening 1213. In still other implementations, neither of theend walls 1212 defines an opening 1213. For example, the ferrulealignment arrangement 1230 may be inserted into the axial passage 1215through one of the ports.

A cover element 1220 may be coupled to the end wall 1212 of certaintypes of adapter housing 1210 to close the opening 1213. One examplecover element 1220 is shown in FIGS. 29-33. In some implementations, thecover panel 1220 is configured to seat on upper guides 1216 of theadapter housing 1210. For example, a lower surface of the cover panel1220 may define ribs 1222 that seat on the guides 1216 when the coverpanel 1220 is coupled to the adapter housing 1210. In certainimplementations, the cover panel 1220 is ultrasonically welded orotherwise secured to the end wall 1212. In some implementations, thecover panel 1220 also includes lower flanges 1223 that define a recess1224 in which a portion of the sleeve mount arrangement 1231 may bereceived (see FIG. 41). Another example cover element is disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 5,317,663, which is incorporated by reference above.

The coupler assembly 1200 includes one or more media reading interfaces1240 (see FIG. 22). Each media reading interface 1240 is configured toacquire the physical layer information from the storage device 1130 of afiber optic connector 1110 plugged into the fiber optic adapter 1210.For example, in one implementation, the adapter housing 1210 can hold orretain a media reading interface 1240 for each passage 1215. In anotherimplementation, the adapter housing 1210 can hold or retain a mediareading interface 1240 for each port of each passage 1215. In stillother implementations, the adapter housing 1210 can include a mediareading interface 1240 associated with each set of passages 1215 thataccommodate a connector arrangement 1100. For example, the adapter 1210shown in FIG. 22 includes a first media reading interface 1240Aassociated with the front port of the passage 1215 and a second mediareading interface 1240B associated with the rear port of the passage1215. In other implementations, the adapter housing 1210 can include anydesired combination of front and rear media reading interfaces 1240.

In certain implementations, the orientation of the first media readinginterface 1240A is flipped 180° from the orientation of the second mediareading interface 1240B. In some implementations, the first mediareading interface 1240A is laterally offset from the second mediareading interface 1240B. For example, the first and second media readinginterfaces 1240A, 1240B may be positioned side-by-side. In otherimplementations, the first and second media reading interfaces 1240A,1240B may be axially aligned. In some implementations, the first andsecond media reading interfaces 1240A, 1240B may be laterally aligned.In other implementations, the first media reading interfaces 1240A maybe offset towards the front of the adapter housing 1210 and the secondmedia reading interface 1240B may be offset towards the rear of theadapter housing 1210.

In general, each media reading interface 1240 is formed from one or morecontact members 1241 (e.g., see FIGS. 34-36). In some implementations,the media reading interface 1240 includes at least a first contactmember 1241 that transfers power, at least a second contact member 1241that transfers data, and at least a third contact member 1241 thatprovides grounding. In one implementation, the media reading interface1240 includes a fourth contact member. In other implementations, themedia reading interface 1240 include greater or fewer contact members1241.

In certain implementations, the cover panel 1220 defines slots 1225configured to receive one or more contact members 1241. When a connector1110 with a storage device 1130 is inserted into one of the ports of theadapter housing 1210, the contacts 1132 of the storage device 1130 areconfigured to align with the slots 1225 defined in the adapter housing1210. Accordingly, the media reading interface contact members 1241 heldwithin the slots 1225 align with the contacts 1132 of the connectorstorage device 1130.

In some implementations, each contact member 1241 is retained within aseparate slot 1225 of the cover panel 1220. For example, in theimplementation shown in FIG. 22, each media reading interface 1240includes four contact members 1241 that are held in a set 1226 (FIG. 29)of four slots 1225. The slots 1225 position the contact members 1241 inalignment with the contact pads 1132 of a connector storage device 1130mounted to a connector 1110 received at the adapter housing 1210. Theslots 1225 in each set 1226 are separated by intermediate walls 1229(FIGS. 29 and 61). In other implementations, all of the contact members1241 in a single media reading interface 1240 may be retained in asingle slot.

At least a portion of each slot 1225 extends through a body 1221 of thecover element 1220 to the axial passage 1215 of the adapter housing1210. In some implementations, the entirety of each slot 1225 extendsthrough the cover body 1221 from top to bottom. In otherimplementations, only portions of the slot 1225 extend from the top tothe bottom of the cover body 1221. For example, each slot 1225 maydefine a recess in the top surface of the body 1221 in which the contactmembers can be positioned. Openings 1227, 1228 defined in a bottom ofthe cover body 1221 enable portions of the contact members 1241 toextend into a respective adapter passageway 1215.

In some implementations, the cover element 1220 is sufficiently thick toenable the media reading interfaces 1240 to be substantially positionedin the cover element 1220. In some implementations, the material heightof the cover element 1220 is at least 0.76 mm (0.03 inches). Indeed, insome implementations, the material height of the cover element 1220 isat least 1.02 mm (0.04 inches). In certain implementations, the materialheight of the cover element 1220 is at least 1.27 mm (0.05 inches). Insome implementations, a height H1 (FIG. 27) of the adapter housing 1210is at least 9.4 mm. In certain implementations, the height H1 of theadapter housing 1210 is at least 10 mm. Indeed, in certainimplementations, the height H1 is at least 10.2 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H1 is about 10.3 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H1 is about 10.4 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H1 is about 10.5 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H1 is about 10.6 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H1 is about 10.7 mm.

In some implementations, the contact members 1241 of a single mediareading interface 1240 are positioned in a staggered configuration. Forexample, alternating ones of the contact members 1241 are moved axiallyforward or axially rearward. In some implementations, the slots 1225accommodating the staggered contact members 1241 also are staggered(e.g., in a front to rear direction). In other implementations, however,the slots 1225 may have a common length. In still other implementations,the front and rear ends of the contact members 1241 of a single mediareading interface 1240 are transversely aligned within similarlytransversely aligned slots 1225.

In some implementations, the cover panel 1220 may define a first slotset 1226A sized to receive the first media reading interface 1240A and asecond slot set 1226B sized to receive the second media readinginterface 1240B. The first slot set 1226A is laterally offset from thesecond slot set 1226B (see FIG. 29). In other implementations, the firstand second slot sets 1226A, 1226B may be axially aligned. In the exampleshown, the first slot set 1226A is axially offset towards the front ofthe adapter housing 1210 relative to the second slot set 1226B. In otherimplementations, however, the slots sets 1226A, 1226B may be laterallyaligned.

As shown in FIG. 29, each set 1226 of slots 1225 accommodating one mediareading interface 1240 has a width W1 and each slot 1225 has a width W2.Intermediate walls 1229, which separate the slots 1225 of each set 1226,each have a width W3. In general, the width W1 of each set 1226 of slots1225 is about the width of a storage device 1130 of a connector 1110configured to be received at the adapter housing 1210. In someimplementations, the width W1 of each set 1226 of slots 1225 is lessthan 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, the widthW1 of each set 1226 of slots 1225 is less than about 3.1 mm (0.12inches). In certain implementations, the width W1 of each set 1226 ofslots 1225 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches). In one exampleimplementation, the width W1 of each set 1226 of slots 1225 is no morethan 2.2 mm (0.09 inches). In one example implementation, the width W1of each set 1226 of slots 1225 is about 2 mm (0.08 inches). In oneexample implementation, the width W1 of each set 1226 of slots 1225 isabout 2.1 mm (0.081 inches).

In certain implementations, the width W3 of the intermediate walls 1229is smaller than the width W2 of the slots 1225. In some implementations,the width W2 of each slot 1225 is within the range of about 0.25 mm(0.010 inches) to about 0.64 mm (0.025 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width W2 of each slot 1225 is within the range ofabout 0.28 mm (0.011 inches) to about 0.48 mm (0.019 inches). In oneimplementation, the width W2 of each slot 1225 is about 0.3 mm (0.012inches). In one implementation, the width W2 of each slot 1225 is about0.28 mm (0.011 inches). In one implementation, the width W2 of each slot1225 is about 0.33 mm (0.013 inches). In some implementations, the widthW3 of each intermediate wall 1229 is within the range of about 0.13 mm(0.005) inches to about 0.36 mm (0.014 inches). In one implementation,the width W3 of each intermediate wall 1229 is about 0.28 mm (0.011inches). In another implementation, the width W3 of each intermediatewall 1229 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches).

In some implementations, the adapter housing 1210 has more sets 1226 ofslots 1225 than media reading interfaces 1240. For example, in someimplementations, each adapter housing 1210 defines a set 1226 of slots1225 at each port of each passage 1215 and one media reading interface1240 per passage. In other implementations, however, the adapter housing1210 may have the same number of slot sets 1226 and media readinginterfaces 1241. For example, in certain implementations, each adapterhousing 1210 may defines a set 1226 of slots 1225 at only one port ofeach passage 1215 or may include a media reading interface 1240 at eachport. In other implementations, the adapter housing 1210 may define aset 1226 of slots 1225 at each port of alternate passages 1215.

As shown in FIG. 22, the media reading interfaces 1240 are positioned inthe slots 1225 of the cover element 1220 to connect a storage device1130 of a connector 1110 received at the adapter housing 1210 with acircuit board 1250 coupled to the adapter housing 1210. For example, acircuit board 1250 may be secured (e.g., via fasteners 1255) to theadapter housing 1210 so as to extend over the slots 1225 of the coverelement 1220. For ease in understanding, only a portion of the circuitboard 1250 is shown in FIG. 22. It is to be understood that the circuitboard 1250 electrically connects to a data processor and/or to a networkinterface (e.g., the processor 217 and network interface 216 of FIG. 2).It is further to be understood that multiple communications couplerhousings 1210 can be connected to the printed circuit board 1250 withina connector assembly (e.g., a communications panel). A processor coupledto the circuit board 1250 can access the memory 1133 of each connectorarrangement 1100 coupled to the adapter housing 1210 throughcorresponding ones of the contact members 1241, 1131.

Each media reading interface 1240 held by the cover panel 1220 extendsbetween the circuit board 1250 and a respective axial passage 1215 ofthe adapter housing 1210. Portions of each contact member 1241 engagetracings and contacts 1252 on the circuit board 1250. Other portions ofthe contact members 1241 engage the electrical contacts 1132 of thestorage members 1130 attached to any connector arrangements 1100 pluggedinto the adapter housing 1210.

One example type of contact member 1241 is shown in FIGS. 34-36. Eachcontact member 1241 includes at least three moveable (e.g., flexible)contact sections 1243, 1245, and 1246 defining contact surfaces. Theflexibility of the contact sections 1243, 1245, and 1246 providestolerance for differences in spacing between the contact member 1241 andthe respective printed circuit board 1250 when the coupler assembly 1200is manufactured. Certain types of contact members 1251 also include atleast one stationary contact 1247 having a contact surface. The examplecontact shown in FIG. 34 includes two stationary contact surfaces 1247.In the example shown, the first moveable contact section 1243 is locatedbetween the two stationary contacts 1247.

The first moveable contact section 1243 is configured to extend throughthe slot 1225 and engage the circuit board 1250. The stationary contacts1247 also are configured to extend through the slot 1225 to engage thecircuit board 1250. The ability of the first contact section 1243 toflex relative to the stationary contact 1247 provides tolerance forplacement of the contact member 1241 relative to the circuit board 1250.The second moveable contact section 1245 is configured to extend intothe axial passage 1215 of the adapter housing 1210 and engage aconnector 1110 at a port thereof. If a storage device 1130 is installedon the connector 1110, then the second contact surface 1245 isconfigured to engage the contact pads 1132 of the storage device 1130.

The third moveable contact surface 1246 is configured to selectivelyextend through the slot 1225 and engage the circuit board 1250. Forexample, the third contact surface 1246 may be configured to engage thecircuit board 1250 when a connector 1110 is inserted into a passage 1215corresponding with the contact member 1241. Certain types of contactmembers 1241 also include a resilient section 1244. The resilientsection 1244 is configured to transfer force applied to second moveablecontact section 1245 to the third moveable contact surface 1246. Forexample, the resilient section 1244 transfers a force pushing the secondsection 1245 towards the slot 1225 to the third section 1246, therebypushing the third contact surface 1246 upwardly through the slot 1225(e.g., toward the circuit board 1250).

In some implementations, the resilient section 1244 defines a thin,linear section of the contact 1241. In other implementations, theresilient section 1244 may define a series of curves, folds, and/orbends. For example, in one implementation, the resilient section maydefine a partial arc. In some implementations, the resilient section1244 has sufficient resiliency to lift and swipe the third moveablecontact surface 1246 against the printed circuit board 1250 (see FIGS.43-45).

The example contact member 1241 is configured to seat in one of theslots 1225 of the adapter housing 1210. For example, the contact member1241 includes one or more bases 1242 that are configured to seat in oneor more openings 1228 defined in the cover body 1221 (see FIG. 42). Thebases 1242 aid in securing the contact member 1241 within the slot 1225of the cover element 1220. In some implementations, the bases 1242define contours, hooks, or other attachment features that aid inretaining the contact member 1241 to the cover body 1221.

In some implementations, the body of the contact member 1241 extendsbetween a first and second end. In the example shown in FIG. 42, one ofthe bases 1242 is located at the first end and the third contact section1246 is located at the second end. The contact member 1241 also extendsbetween a top and a bottom. In some implementations, the contactsurfaces of the first and third contact sections 1243, 1246 face the topof the contact member 1241 and the contact surface of the second contactsection 1245 faces the bottom of the contact member 1241. In the exampleshown, the first and third contact sections 1243, 1246 extend at leastpartially towards the top of the contact member 1241 and the secondcontact section 1245 extends towards the bottom of the contact member1241. As used herein, the terms “top” and “bottom” are not meant toimply a proper orientation of the contact member 1241 or that the top ofthe contact member 1241 must be located above the bottom of theconnector 1241. Rather, the terms are used for ease in understanding andare assigned relative to the viewing plane of FIGS. 34 and 35.

The contact member 1241 defines a body having a circumferential edge1248 (FIG. 36) extending between planar major sides 1249 (FIG. 35).Portions of the planar surfaces 1249 of the contact member 1241 mayincrease and/or decrease in width. For example, in certainimplementations, each of the contact surfaces of the contact sections1243, 1245, 1246 are rounded or otherwise contoured. For example, inFIG. 34, the first and third contact sections 1243, 1246 define bulboustips and the second contact section 1245 defines an arced sectionextending from a linear section of the contact member 1241.

In certain implementations, the edge 1248 defines the contact surface ofeach contact section 1243, 1245, 1246, 1247 (see FIG. 36). In someimplementations, the edge 1248 has a substantially continuous thicknessT (FIG. 36). In various implementations, the thickness T ranges fromabout 0.05 inches to about 0.005 inches. In certain implementations, thethickness T is less than about 0.02 inches. In some implementation, thethickness T is less than about 0.012 inches. In another implementation,the thickness T is about 0.01 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T is about 0.009 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T is about 0.008 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T is about 0.007 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T is about 0.006 inches. In other implementations, thethickness T may vary across the body of the contact member 1241.

In one implementation, the contact member 1241 is formed monolithically(e.g., from a continuous sheet of metal or other material). For example,in some implementations, the contact member 1241 may be manufactured bycutting a planar sheet of metal or other material. In otherimplementations, the contact member 1241 may be manufactured by etchinga planar sheet of metal or other material. In other implementations, thecontact member 1241 may be manufactured by laser trimming a planar sheetof metal or other material. In still other implementations, the contactmember 1241 may be manufactured by stamping a planar sheet of metal orother material. In still other implementations, the contact member 1241may be formed from wire or coil stock.

The contact member 1241 shown and described herein is formed from asingle piece. In other implementations, however, two or more separatepieces may operate together to perform the functions of the contactmember 1241. For example, a first piece may form the first moveablecontact section 1243 and a second piece may from the third moveablecontact section 1246. Either of the pieces may form the second moveablecontact section 1245. Insertion of a connector 1110 into a respectiveport of the adapter housing 1210 may push one of the pieces intoelectrical contact with the other of the pieces to electrically connectthe first and second contact sections 1243, 1246.

In accordance with some aspects, the media reading interfaces 1240 ofthe coupler assembly 1200 are configured to detect when a connectorarrangement 1100 is plugged into a port of the adapter housing 1210. Forexample, the contact members 1241 of a media reading interface 1240 canfunction as presence detection sensors or trigger switches. In someimplementations, the contact members 1241 of a media reading interface1240 are configured to form a complete circuit with the circuit board1250 only when a connector 1110 is inserted within a respective passage1215.

For example, at least a portion of each contact member 1241 may beconfigured to contact the circuit board 1250 only after being pushedtoward the circuit board 1250 by a connector 1110. In other exampleimplementations, portions of the contact members 1241 can be configuredto complete a circuit until the connector 1110 pushes the contact memberportions away from the circuit board 1250 or from a shorting rod. Inaccordance with other aspects, however, some implementations of thecontact members 1241 may be configured to form a complete circuit withthe circuit board 1250 regardless of whether a connector 1110 isreceived in a passage 1215.

FIGS. 37-39 show portions of one example implementation of a circuitboard 1250. The same or similar circuit boards 1250 are suitable for usein any of the coupler assemblies described herein. The example circuitboard 1250 includes a plurality of first contact pads 1253 and aplurality of second contact pads 1254 spaced from the first contact pads1253. In certain implementations, each of the first contact pads 1253 islongitudinally aligned with one of the second contact pads 1254 to forma landing pair 1255. In other implementations, however, the first andsecond contact pads 1253, 1254 may be longitudinally offset from eachother.

In certain implementations, the first contact pads 1253 are laterallyaligned with each other and the second contact pads 1254 are laterallyaligned with each other. In other implementations, however, the firstcontact pads 1253 may be laterally offset or staggered from each otherand/or the second contact pads 1254 may be laterally offset of staggeredfrom each other.

Each contact member 1241 of a media reading interface 1240 extendsacross one landing pair 1255. In the example shown, the first moveablecontact surface 1243 of each contact member 1241 touches one of thefirst contact pads 1253. In certain implementations, the stationarycontacts 1257 also touch the first contact pads 1253. The third moveablecontact surface 1246 of each contact member 1241 is configured toselectively touch the second contact pad 1254 that forms a landing pair1255 with the first contact pad 1253. Touching the third contact surface1246 of a contact member 1241 to the second contact pad 1254 completes acircuit between the first and second contact pads 1253, 1254.

FIGS. 40-45 illustrate the effect of inserting a fiber optic connector1110 into a port of an adapter housing 1210 including a first mediareading interface 1240 positioned at the port. The adapter housing 1210includes a cover element that extends along a circuit board 1250 coupledto the adapter housing 1210. The first media reading interface 1240includes at least a first contact member 1241 positioned in a slot 1225of the cover element 1220. Portions of the first contact member 1241extend towards the passage 1215 and portions of the first contact member1241 extend towards the circuit board 1250.

In FIGS. 40-42, no connectors 1110 are coupled to the adapter housing1210. The contact members 1241 of each media reading interface 1240 arepositioned in the slots 1225 of the cover element 1220. The bases 1242of the contact members 1241 secure the contact members 1241 to the slots1225 (e.g., by snapping into holes 1228). The first moveable contactsurface 1243 extends through the cover element 1220 and engages one ofthe first contact pads 1253 of the circuit board 1250. The stationarycontacts 1247 also extend through the cover element 1220 and engage thefirst contact pad 1253 of the circuit board 1250. The second moveablecontact surface 1245 extends through the opening 1228 in the coverelement 1220 and into the passage 1215 of the adapter housing 1210. Thethird moveable contact surface 1246 is spaced from the second contactpad 1254 of the circuit board 1250. For example, the third moveablecontact surface 1246 may rest against a ledge defined in the slot 1225.

In some implementations, each media reading interface 1240 includes atleast three contact members 1241. Each contact member 1241 is positionedin a separate slot 1225 of the cover element 1220. Adjacent slots 1225are separated by intermediate walls 1229. In certain implementations,each media reading interface 1240 includes four contact members 1241. Inother implementations, however, each media reading interface 1240 mayinclude greater or fewer contact members 1241. In the cross-sectionsshown in FIGS. 42 and 45, only the first contact members 1241 of eachmedia reading interface 1240 is visible. An intermediate wall 1229blocks the other contact members 1241 of the first media readinginterface 1240 from view. In addition, even portions of the othercontact members 1241 that extend past the intermediate walls 1229 cannotbe seen in FIGS. 42 and 45 since the other contact members 1241laterally align with the first contact member 1241.

In some implementations, a second media reading interface also ispositioned in the cover element 1220. In the example shown in FIGS.40-45, the second media reading interface extends along a majority ofthe length of the first media reading interface 1240. However, contactmembers of the second media reading interface are oriented 180° relativeto the contact members 1241 of the first media reading interface 1240.Accordingly, in FIG. 42, the second contact surface 1245′ of a firstcontact member of the second media reading interface is visibleextending into the passageway 1215 of the adapter housing 1210. Thesecond contact surfaces of other contact members of the second mediareading interface are hidden from view behind the second contact surfaceof the first contact member of the second media reading interface.

As shown in FIGS. 43-45, inserting a connector 1110 into an adapterpassage 1215 causes the deflection surface 1159 of a connector 1110 toslide within the passage 1215 towards the second moveable contactsurface 1245. Continuing to insert the connector 1110 causes thedeflection surface 1159 to engage and push the second moveable contactsurface 1245 out of the passage 1215. Pushing the second moveablecontact surface 1245 out of the passage 1215 pushes the third moveablecontact surface 1246 away from the ledge toward the circuit board 1250.In certain implementations, pushing the third moveable contact surface1246 away from the ledge causes the third contact surface 1246 to engage(e.g., touch or wipe across) the second contact pad 1254 of the circuitboard 1250. Accordingly, the presence of the connector 1110 in thepassage 1215 may be detected when the deflection surface 1159 of theconnector 1110 engages the contact member 1241.

In some implementations, the connector 1110 does not include a storagedevice 1130. For example, the connector 1110 may be an existingconnector that does not store physical layer information. In otherimplementations, the connector 1110 may be part of a duplex connectorarrangement in which the other connector 1110 holds the storage device1130. In other implementations, however, the connector 1110 may includea storage device 1130. In such implementations, the second contactsurface 1245 of the contact member 1241 slides or wipes across thesurface of the contacts 1132 of the storage device 1130 during insertionof the connector 1110 (see FIGS. 44-45).

In some implementations, the storage device 1130 is spaced from thedeflection edge 1159 of the connector 1110. When the connector 1110 isinserted into the passage 1215, the deflection edge 1159 engages andpushes the second moveable contact surface 1245 against the circuitboard 1250 before the second moveable contact surface 1245 engages thecontacts 1132 of the connector storage device 1130. Accordingly, thepresence of the connector 1110 within the passage 1215 may be detectedbefore the memory 1133 of the storage device 1130 can be accessed.

In other implementations, at least a portion of the storage device 1130is accessible through a recess in the deflection surface 1159. In suchimplementations, the second contact surface 1245 of at least one thecontact member 1241 touches the storage device contacts 1132 as thethird moveable contact surface 1246 is being deflected against thecircuit board 1250. Accordingly, the presence of the connector 1110within the passage 1215 may be detected at approximately the same timethat the memory 1133 of the connector storage device 1130 can beaccessed.

As discussed above, a processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) or othersuch equipment also can be electrically coupled to the printed circuitboard 1250. Accordingly, the processor can communicate with the memorycircuitry 1133 on the connector storage device 1130 via the contactmembers 1241 and the printed circuit board 1250. In accordance with someaspects, the processor is configured to obtain physical layerinformation from the connector storage device 1130. In accordance withother aspects, the processor is configured to write (e.g., new orrevised) physical layer information to the connector storage device1130. In accordance with other aspects, the processor is configured todelete physical layer information from the connector storage device1130. In still other implementations, the processor detects the presenceor absence of a connector 1110 in each passage 1215.

Removing the connector 1110 from the passage 1215 releases the secondmoveable contact portion 1245 of the contact member 1241, therebyallowing the third moveable contact portion 1246 to move back to theinitial position (see FIG. 42). Dropping the third moveable contactportion 1246 disengages the third contact surface 1246 from the circuitboard 1250, thereby interrupting the circuit created by the contactmember 1241. Interrupting the circuit enables a processor connected tothe circuit board 1250 to determine that the connector 1110 has beenremoved from the passage 1215.

In accordance with some implementations, dust caps 2260 can be used toprotect passages 1215 of the adapter housings 1210 when connectorarrangements 1100 or other physical media segments are not receivedwithin the passages 1215. For example, a dust cap 2260 can be configuredto fit within a front entrance or a rear entrance of each adapterpassage 1215. The dust caps 2260 are configured to inhibit the ingressof dust, dirt, or other contaminants into the passage 1215. Inaccordance with some implementations, the dust caps 2260 are configurednot to trigger the presence sensor/switch of the adapter 1210. Onenon-limiting example of a dust cap 2260 is shown in FIGS. 71-77 anddiscussed in more detail herein.

FIGS. 46-69 illustrate an example implementation of a second connectorsystem 2000 that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality. One example connector assembly on which the connectorsystem 2000 can be implemented is a bladed chassis (see FIG. 70). Theconnector system 2000 includes at least one example communicationscoupler assembly 2200 that may be used with the connector arrangements1100 described herein. Communications data signals carried by a mediasegment 1010 terminated by a first connector arrangement 1100 can bepropagated to another media segment (e.g., terminated by a secondconnector arrangement 1100) through the communications coupler assembly2200.

FIGS. 46-48 show one example implementation of a communications couplerassembly 2200. The example communications coupler assembly 2200 includesan adapter housing 2210 defining one or more passages 2215. In theexample shown, the adapter housing 2210 defines six axial passages 2215.In other implementations, however, the adapter housing 2210 may definegreater or fewer (e.g., one, two, three, four, eight, ten, twelve,sixteen) axial passages 2215. As shown in FIG. 48, a ferrule alignmentarrangement 2230 is located in each axial passage 2215 of the adapterhousing 2210. One example ferrule alignment arrangement 2230 includesthe sleeve mount arrangement 1231 and the ferrule sleeve 1206 describedabove (see FIG. 48).

The ferrule alignment arrangement 2230 in each passage 2215 isconfigured to align and interface two fiber optic connectors 1110 (e.g.,see FIG. 46). In other example implementations, however, one or morepassages 2215 may enclose structure to communicatively couple together afiber optic connector 1110 with a media converter (not shown) to convertthe optical data signals into electrical data signals, wireless datasignals, or other such data signals. In still other implementations, thecommunications coupler assembly 2200 can include an electricaltermination block that is configured to receive punch-down wires,electrical plugs (e.g., for electrical jacks), or other types ofelectrical connectors.

The communications coupler 2200 also includes a circuit board 2250coupled to the adapter housing 2210. For ease in understanding, only aportion of the circuit board 2250 is shown in FIGS. 46-48. It is to beunderstood that the circuit board 2250 electrically connects to a dataprocessor and/or to a network interface (e.g., the processor 217 andnetwork interface 216 of FIG. 2). It is further to be understood thatmultiple communications coupler housings 2210 can be connected to thecircuit board 2250 within a connector assembly (e.g., a communicationspanel).

FIGS. 48 and 49 illustrate an example adapter housing 2210 definingmultiple axial passages 2215. The adapter housing 2210 has opposing sidewalls 2211 interconnected by first and second end walls 2212. The sidewalls 2211 and the end walls 2212 extend between a front end and a rearend of the adapter housing 2210. The axial passages 2215 of the adapterhousing 2210 extend between the front and rear ends. Each end of eachaxial passage 2215 defines a port that is configured to receive aconnector 1110.

The coupler assembly 2200 also includes one or more media readinginterfaces 2240 coupled to the adapter housing 2210 (see FIG. 48). Eachmedia reading interface 2240 is configured to acquire the physical layerinformation from the storage device 1130 of a fiber optic connector 1110plugged into the fiber optic adapter 2210. For example, each mediareading interface 2240 may couple the storage device 1130 of a fiberoptic connector 1110 to a processor via the circuit board 2250 as willbe described in more detail herein.

In one implementation, the adapter housing 2210 holds or retains a mediareading interface 2240 for each passage 2215. In another implementation,the adapter housing 2210 can hold or retain a media reading interface2240 for each port of each passage 2215. In still other implementations,the adapter housing 2210 can include a media reading interface 2240associated with each set of passages 2215 that accommodate a connectorarrangement 1100. In other implementations, the adapter housing 2210 caninclude any desired combination of front and rear media readinginterfaces 2240.

For example, the adapter 2210 shown in FIG. 48 includes a first mediareading interface 2240A associated with the front port of the right-mostpassage 2215 and a second media reading interface 2240B associated withthe rear port of the right-most passage 2215. In certainimplementations, the orientation of the first media reading interface2240A is flipped 180° from the orientation of the second media readinginterface 2240B. In some implementations, the first media readinginterface 2240A is laterally offset from the second media readinginterface 2240B. For example, the first and second media readinginterfaces 2240A, 2240B may be positioned side-by-side. In otherimplementations, the first and second media reading interfaces 2240A,2240B may be axially aligned. In some implementations, the first andsecond media reading interfaces 2240A, 2240B may be laterally aligned.In other implementations, the first media reading interfaces 2240A maybe axially offset towards the front of the adapter housing 2210 and thesecond media reading interface 2240B may be offset towards the rear ofthe adapter housing 2210.

In general, each media reading interface 2240 is formed from one or morecontact members 2241. In some implementations, the media readinginterface 2240 includes at least a first contact member 2241 thattransfers power, at least a second contact member 2241 that transfersdata, and at least a third contact member 2241 that provides grounding.In one implementation, the media reading interface 2240 includes afourth contact member 2241. In other implementations, the media readinginterface 2240 include greater or fewer contact members 2241.

FIGS. 50-52 show one example type of contact member 2241. Each contactmember 2241 includes at least three moveable (e.g., flexible) contactsections 2243, 2245, and 2246 defining contact surfaces. The flexibilityof the contact sections 2243, 2245, and 2246 provides tolerance fordifferences in spacing between the contact member 2241 and the printedcircuit board 2250 when the coupler assembly 2200 is manufactured.Certain types of contact members 2241 also include at least onestationary contact 2247 having a contact surface. The example contactshown in FIG. 50 includes two stationary contact surfaces 2247. In theexample shown, the first moveable contact section 2243 is locatedbetween the two stationary contacts 2247.

Certain types of contact members 2241 also include a resilient section2244. The resilient section 2244 is configured to enable any forceapplied to the second moveable contact section 2245 to be applied to thethird moveable contact surface 2246. In some implementations, theresilient section 2244 defines a thin, linear section of the contact2241. In other implementations, the resilient section 2244 may define aseries of curves, folds, and/or bends. For example, in oneimplementation, the resilient section may define a partial arc.

In some implementations, the contact member 2241 is configured to besecured to the adapter housing 2210. For example, the example contactmember 2241 includes one or more bases 2242 that are configured to seatin one or more openings defined in a wall of the adapter housing 2210 aswill be described in more detail here. In some implementations, thebases 2242 define contours, hooks, or other attachment features that aidin retaining the contact member 2241 to the adapter housing 2210 (e.g.,in a press-fit manner).

In some implementations, the body of the contact member 2241 extendsbetween a first and second end. In certain implementations, the base2242 is located at the first end and the third contact section 2246 islocated at the second end. In the example shown in FIG. 51, one of thestationary contacts 2247 is located at the first end. The contact member2241 also extends between a top and a bottom. In some implementations,the contact surfaces of the first and third contact sections 2243, 2246face the top of the contact member 2241 and the contact surface of thesecond contact section 2245 faces the bottom of the contact member 2241.In the example shown, the first and third contact sections 2243, 2246extend at least partially towards the top of the contact member 2241 andthe second contact section 2245 extends towards the bottom of thecontact member 2241. As used herein, the terms “top” and “bottom” arenot meant to imply a proper orientation of the contact member 2241 orthat the top of the contact member 2241 must be located above the bottomof the connector 2241. Rather, the terms are used for ease inunderstanding and are assigned relative to the viewing plane of FIG. 51.

The contact member 2241 defines a body having a circumferential edge2248 extending between planar major sides 2249 (FIG. 50). Portions ofthe planar surfaces 2249 of the contact member 2241 may increase and/ordecrease in width. For example, in certain implementations, each of thecontact surfaces of the contact sections 2243, 2245, 2246 are rounded orotherwise contoured. For example, in FIG. 50, the first and thirdcontact sections 2243, 2246 define bulbous tips. Also, the base in FIG.51 is significantly wider than the resilient section 2244.

In certain implementations, the edge 2248 defines the contact surface ofeach contact section 2243, 2245, 2246, 2247 (see FIG. 50). In someimplementations, the edge 2248 has a substantially continuous thicknessT2 (FIG. 52). In various implementations, the thickness T2 ranges fromabout 0.05 inches to about 0.005 inches. In certain implementations, thethickness T2 is less than about 0.02 inches. In some implementation, thethickness T2 is less than about 0.012 inches. In another implementation,the thickness T2 is about 0.01 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T2 is about 0.009 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T2 is about 0.008 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T2 is about 0.007 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T2 is about 0.006 inches. In other implementations, thethickness T2 may vary across the body of the contact member 2241.

In one implementation, the contact member 2241 is formed monolithically(e.g., from a continuous sheet of metal or other material). For example,in some implementations, the contact member 2241 may be manufactured bycutting a planar sheet of metal or other material. In otherimplementations, the contact member 2241 may be manufactured by etchinga planar sheet of metal or other material. In other implementations, thecontact member 2241 may be manufactured by laser trimming a planar sheetof metal or other material. In still other implementations, the contactmember 2241 may be manufactured by stamping a planar sheet of metal orother material. In still other implementations, the contact member 2241may be formed from wire or coil stock.

The contact member 2241 shown and described herein is formed from asingle piece. In other implementations, however, two or more separatepieces may operate together to perform the functions of the contactmember 2241. For example, a first piece may form the first moveablecontact section 2243 and a second piece may from the third moveablecontact section 2246. Either of the pieces may form the second moveablecontact section 2245. In certain implementations, insertion of aconnector 1110 into a respective port of the adapter housing 2210 maypush one of the pieces into electrical contact with the other of thepieces to electrically connect the first and second contact sections2243, 2246.

FIGS. 53-60 illustrate one example adapter housing 2210 definingmultiple passages 2215. In some implementations, one or more of the endwalls 2212 of the adapter housing 2210 define openings through which theferrule alignment arrangements 2230 are inserted into the passageways2215. In some such implementations, the adapter housing 2210 may includeone or more cover elements closing the openings defined in the adapterhousing 2210. The cover elements may be secured to the end wall 2212(e.g., via adhesive, welding, latching, or snap-fit connection).

In other implementations, the ferrule alignment arrangements 2230 areinserted into the passageways 2215 through the ports. In some suchimplementations, the adapter housing 2210 may be monolithically formed.For example, certain types of adapter housings 2210 may be formed viainjection-molding. The adapter housing 2210 may include one or morelatching arrangements provided in the passageways 2215 to receive andsecure the ferrule alignment arrangements 2230. In one implementation,one example latching arrangement may include a latching hook 2236 and atleast one stop 2237. In the example shown in FIGS. 56 and 60, eachlatching arrangement includes a central latching hook 2236 positionedbetween two stops 2237. A recess 2238 (FIG. 59) is provided between thelatching hook 2236 and the stops 2237. A latching nose 2232 of eachferrule alignment arrangements 2230 is configured to snap over thelatching hook 2236 and into the recess 2238 when the ferrule alignmentarrangements 2230 is slid into a respective passageway 2215 (see FIGS.65-66). In some implementations, a latching arrangement may be providedat both the top and bottom of each passageway 2215.

Additional details regarding one example latching arrangement for use insecuring a ferrule alignment arrangement within an adapter housingthrough one of the ports can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,377,697, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference above.

One or more guides 2216 may be formed in the passages 2215 of adapterhousing 2210 (FIG. 53). The guides 2216 extend longitudinally along theinterior corners of the axial passage 2215. The guides 2216 cooperatewith the outer surface of a fiber optic connector housing 1114 toreceive the connector 1110 within the axial passage 2215. In certainembodiments, the guides 2216 may define ramped entry surfaces tofacilitate insertion of the connector housing 1114 within the adapterpassage 2215. One of the end walls 2212 of the adapter housing 2210defines at least one keyway 2218 for each passage 2215 sized and shapedto receive a corresponding key 1118 of the SC-type fiber optic connector1110 (see FIG. 5). In certain implementations, a keyway 2218 is definedin the end wall 2212 at both ports of an axial passage 2215 (see FIG.55).

One or more fastener openings 2219 extend through the adapter housing2210 between the first and second end walls 2212. In certainimplementations, an annular wall may be provided at one end of eachfastener opening 2219 to demarcate the fastener openings 2219 (see FIG.53). In some implementations, fasteners (e.g., screws, snaps, nails,bolts, rivets, etc.) may be inserted into the fastener openings 2219 tosecure the adapter housing 2210 to a surface. In other implementations,fasteners 2255 may be inserted into the fastener openings 2219 to securea circuit board 2250 or other structure to the adapter housing 2210. Incertain implementations, the circuit board fasteners 2255 may extendcompletely through the adapter housing 2210 to secure the circuit board2250 to one end of the adapter housing 2210 and to secure the other endof the adapter housing 2210 to another surface.

In some implementations, flanges 2217 extend outwardly from the sidewalls 2211 of the adapter housing 2210. The flanges 2217 may aid insupporting the adapter housing 2210 on or against a planar surface, suchas that of a bulkhead. In some implementations, one or both side walls2211 of the adapter housing 2210 also include a flexible cantilever armdefining outwardly protruding tabs that are configured to cooperate withthe flanges 2217 to capture the adapter housing 2210 against a bulkhead.In other implementations, the side walls 2211 of the adapter housing2210 define solid surfaces. In still other implementations, recesses maybe provided in the side walls 2211 to permit the use of alternativefasteners, such as a flexible clip, to secure the adapter housing 2210to a surface or module.

The adapter housing 2210 defines one or more openings or slots 2225 thatlead to the axial passages 2215. Each slot 2225 is configured to receiveone or more contact members 2241 of a media reading interface 2240. Insome implementations, the first end wall 2212 is sufficiently thick toenable the media reading interfaces 2240 to be substantially positionedin the end wall 2212. For example, in some implementations, a materialheight of the first end wall 2212 is at least 0.76 mm (0.03 inches).Indeed, in some implementations, the material height of the first endwall 2212 is at least 1.02 mm (0.04 inches). In certain implementations,the material height of the first end wall 2212 is at least 1.27 mm (0.05inches).

In some implementations, a height H2 (FIG. 56) of the adapter housing2210 is at least 9.4 mm. In certain implementations, the height H2 ofthe adapter housing 2210 is at least 10 mm. Indeed, in certainimplementations, the height H2 is at least 10.2 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H2 is about 10.3 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H2 is about 10.4 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H2 is about 10.5 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H2 is about 10.6 mm. In one exampleimplementation, the height H2 is about 10.7 mm.

The slots 2225 position the contact members 2241 in alignment with thecontact pads 1132 of a connector storage device 1130 mounted to aconnector 1110 received at the adapter housing 2210. In certainimplementations, at least a portion of each contact member 2241 extendsinto a respective channel 2215 to engage the electrical contacts 1132 ofthe storage member 1130 of any connector 1100 positioned in the passage2215. Other portions of the contact members 2241 are configured toprotrude outwardly through the slots 2225 to engage contacts andtracings on a printed circuit board 2250 as will be described in moredetail herein.

In some implementations, the first end wall 2212 may define a first slot2225A sized to receive the first media reading interface 2240A and asecond slot 2225B sized to receive the second media reading interface2240B. The first slot 2225A is laterally offset from the second slot2225B (see FIG. 57). However, the slots 2225A, 2225B are sufficientlynarrow that both slots 2225A, 2225B lead to the same axial passage 2215.In the example shown in FIG. 57, the first slot 2225A is axially offsettowards the front of the adapter housing 2210 relative to the secondslot 2225B. In other implementations, however, the slots 2225A, 2225Bmay be aligned.

As shown in FIGS. 57 and 58, the slots 2225 extend at least part-wayacross the axial passages 2215 of the adapter housing 2210. In theexample shown, each slot 2225 extends across a majority of the length ofthe passage 2215. Such a length enables each contact member 2241 to havea beam length that is a majority of the length of the passage 2215. Thelonger the beam length of the contact member 2241, the more the contactmembers 2241 can flex. In other implementations, each slot 2225 mayextend a greater or lesser distance across the passage 2215.

In some implementations, each contact member 2241 is retained within aseparate slot 2225 of the adapter housing 2210. For example, each mediareading interface 2240 may includes four contact members 2241 that areheld in a set of four slots 2225. In other implementations, two or moreof the contact members 2241 are retained within the same slot 2225. Forexample, each contact member 2241 of a media reading interface 2240 maybe retained in a single slot 2225 (see FIG. 49). In still otherimplementations, the contact members 2241 of two or more media readinginterfaces 2240 may be retained within the same slot 2225.

In some implementations, the contacts 2241 of each media readinginterface 2240 are aligned with each other. In other implementations,however, the contact members 2241 of a single media reading interface2240 are positioned in a staggered configuration. In some suchimplementations, the slots 2225 accommodating the staggered contactmembers 2241 also are staggered (e.g., in a front to rear direction). Inother such implementations, the slots 2225 of the adapter housing 2210have a common length that is sufficiently long to accommodate thestaggered contact members 2241.

In some implementations, the entirety of each slot 2225 extends throughthe first end wall 2212 from top to bottom. In other implementations,however, only portions of the slot 2225 extend from the top to thebottom of the first end wall 2212. For example, an intermediate portionof each slot 2225 can extend through the exterior surface of the firstend wall 2212 to a recessed surface 2221 (FIGS. 59 and 60). The recessedsurface 2221 is configured to support at least a portion of at least onecontact member 2241 of at least one media reading interface 2240.

At least a first opening 2222 is defined in the recessed surface 2221 toprovide access to an axial passage 2215 of the adapter housing 2210. Thefirst opening 2222 separates the recessed surface 2221 into a supportsurface 2223 and a ledge 2224. In certain implementations, a secondopening 2226 is defined in the recessed surface 2221 to provide accessto the axial passage 2215. The second opening 2226 separates therecessed surface 2221 into the support surface 2223 and a second ledge2227.

One or more contact members 2241 may be provided in the slot 2225. Thefirst opening 2222 is configured to provide the second moveable contactsection 2245 of each contact member 2241 with access to the respectiveaxial passage 2215 when the contact member 2241 is positioned in theslot 2225. The second opening 2226 is configured to receive the base2242 of the contact member 2241 to aid in securing the contact member2241 within the slot 2225. The resilient section 2244 of each contactmember 2241 extends over the support surface 2223 and the third contactsurface 2246 of each contact member 2241 extends over a respective ledge2224 (see FIG. 66).

In some implementations, the first end wall 2212 of the adapter 2210defines intermediate walls 2229 that extend between pairs of adjacentcontact members 2241. The intermediate walls 2229 inhibit contactbetween adjacent contact members 2241. For example, the intermediatewall sections 2229 may inhibit contact between adjacent contact members2241 during insertion and removal of a connector 1110 at a respectivepassage 2215 of the adapter housing 2210. In certain implementations,the intermediate walls 2229 extend fully between the adjacent contactmembers 2241. In other implementations, intermediate wall sections 2229extend between portions of the adjacent contact members 2241.

In the example shown in FIGS. 58-59, each slot 2225 includes one or moreintermediate wall sections 2229 configured to extend between each pairof adjacent contact members 2241. For example, in certainimplementations, intermediate wall sections 2229 extends longitudinallyfrom ends of the slots 2225 to separate the ends of each pair ofadjacent contact members 2241. In some implementations, intermediatewall sections 2229 also may extend longitudinally along an intermediateportion of the slot 2225 to separate intermediate sections of adjacentcontact members 2241. In the example shown, some intermediate wallsections 2229 are located to extend between the third moveable contactsections 2246 of adjacent pairs (see FIG. 66).

In some implementations, the adapter housing 2210 has more slots 2225than media reading interfaces 2240. For example, in someimplementations, each adapter housing 2210 defines a slot 2225 at eachport of each passage 2215 and one media reading interface 2240 perpassage. In other implementations, however, the adapter housing 2210 mayhave the same number of slots 2225 and media reading interfaces 2240.For example, in certain implementations, each adapter housing 2210 maydefines a slot 2225 at only one port of each passage 2215 or may includea media reading interface 2240 at each port. In other implementations,the adapter housing 2210 may define a slot 2225 at each port ofalternate passages 2215.

As shown in FIG. 48, each media reading interface 2240 positioned in aslot 2225 of the adapter housing 2210 is configured to connect a storagedevice 1130 of a connector 1110 received at the adapter housing 2210with a circuit board 2250 coupled to the adapter housing 2210. Forexample, a circuit board 2250 may be secured (e.g., via fasteners 2255)to the adapter housing 2210 so as to extend over the slots 2225 of theadapter housing 2210. Each media reading interface 2240 positioned inthe adapter housing 2210 extends generally between the circuit board2250 and a respective axial passage 2215. Portions of each contactmember 2241 are configured to engage tracings and contacts on thecircuit board 2250. Other portions of the contact members 2241 areconfigured to engage the electrical contacts 1132 of the storage members1130 attached to any connector arrangements 1100 plugged into theadapter housing 2210.

In accordance with some aspects, the media reading interfaces 2240 ofthe coupler assembly 2200 are configured to detect when a connectorarrangement 1100 is plugged into a port of the adapter housing 2210. Forexample, the contact members 2241 of a media reading interface 2240 canfunction as presence detection sensors or trigger switches. In someimplementations, the contact members 2241 of a media reading interface2240 are configured to form a complete circuit with the circuit board2250 only when a connector 1110 is inserted within a respective passage2215.

For example, at least a portion of each contact member 2241 may beconfigured to contact the circuit board 2250 only after being pushedtoward the circuit board 2250 by a connector 1110. In other exampleimplementations, portions of the contact members 2241 can be configuredto complete a circuit until the connector 1110 pushes the contact memberportions away from the circuit board 2250 or from a shorting rod. Inaccordance with other aspects, however, some implementations of thecontact members 2241 may be configured to form a complete circuit withthe circuit board 2250 regardless of whether a connector 1110 isreceived in a passage 2215.

FIGS. 61-63 show portions of one example implementation of a circuitboard 2250. The same or similar circuit boards 2250 are suitable for usein any of the coupler assemblies described herein. The example circuitboard 2250 includes a plurality of first contact pads 2253 and aplurality of second contact pads 2254 spaced from the first contact pads2253. In the example shown, the first and second contact pads 2253, 2254are separated into groups 2256, 2257, respectively. Each group 2256,2257 of contact pads 2253, 2254 is associated with a media readinginterface 2240.

In some implementations, each circuit board 2250 includes a single group2256, 2257 of each type of contact pad 2253, 2254. In otherimplementations, each circuit board 2250 includes two groups 2256, 2257of each type of contact pads 2253, 2254. In certain implementations, thegroups 2256, 2257 may be flipped to accommodate media reading interfaces2240 of different orientations. For example, the circuit board 2250 mayinclude a first group 2256 of first contact pads 2253 at a first end ofthe board 2250, a first group 2257 of second contact pads 2254 at asecond end of the board 2250, a second group 2256 of first contact pads2253 at the second end of the board 2250, and a second group 2257 ofsecond contact pads 2254 at the first end of the board 2250. In otherimplementations, each of the groups 2256 of first contact pads 2253 maybe positioned at the first end of the board 2250 and each group 2257 ofsecond contact pads 2254 may be positioned at the second end of theboard 2250.

In some implementations, each circuit board 2250 may include one or moresets 2258 of one or more groups 2256, 2257 of contact pads. In certainimplementations, each circuit board 2250 includes a set 2258 of contactpads for each axial passage defined in the adapter housing 2210. In theexample shown in FIG. 61, the circuit board 2250 includes six sets 2258of contact pads. Each set 2258 of contact pads includes two groups 2256of first contact pads 2253 and two groups 2257 of second contact pads2254. Gaps between adjacent contact pad sets 2258 are wider than gapsbetween adjacent contact pad groups 2256, 2257. Gaps between adjacentcontact pad groups 2256, 2257 are wider than gaps between contact pads2253, 2254 within each group 2256, 2257.

In certain implementations, the circuit board 2250 defines one or morefastener openings 2252 through which fasteners 2255 may extend to securethe circuit board 2250 to the adapter housing 2210. In someimplementations, a fastener opening 2252 is defined at opposite ends ofthe circuit board 2250. In certain implementations, a fastener opening2252 is defined between each adjacent set 2258 of contact pads. In otherimplementations, greater or fewer fastener openings 2252 may be providedat the same or other locations on the board 2250.

In some implementations, each of the first contact pads 2253 within eachset 2258 is longitudinally aligned with one of the second contact pads2254 to form a landing pair 2255. In other implementations, however, thefirst and second contact pads 2253, 2254 may be longitudinally offsetfrom each other. In certain implementations, the first contact pads 2253are laterally aligned with each other and the second contact pads 2254are laterally aligned with each other. In other implementations,however, the first contact pads 2253 may be laterally offset orstaggered from each other and/or the second contact pads 2254 may belaterally offset of staggered from each other.

Each contact member 2241 of a media reading interface 2240 extendsacross one landing pair 2255. In the example shown, the first moveablecontact surface 2243 of each contact member 2241 touches one of thefirst contact pads 2253. In certain implementations, the stationarycontacts 2257 also touch the first contact pads 2253. The third moveablecontact surface 2246 of each contact member 2241 is configured toselectively touch the second contact pad 2254 that forms a landing pair2255 with the first contact pad 2253. Touching the third contact surface2246 of a contact member 2241 to the second contact pad 2254 completes acircuit between the first and second contact pads 2253, 2254.

As shown in FIGS. 46-48, the circuit board 2250 is configured to extendover the slots 2225 defined in the adapter housing 2210. Portions of thecontact members 2241 of each media reading interfaces 2240 extendtowards the circuit board 2250 and portions of the contact members 2241extend towards the axial passageways 2215 defined in the adapter housing2210. For example, the first moveable contact section 2243 of eachcontact member 2241 is configured to extend through the slot 2225 andengage the circuit board 2250. The stationary contacts 2247 also areconfigured to extend through the slot 2225 to engage the circuit board2250. The ability of the first contact section 2243 to flex relative tothe stationary contact 2247 provides tolerance for placement of thecontact member 2241 relative to the circuit board 2250.

The second moveable contact section 2245 is configured to extend throughthe slot 2225 and into a respective axial passage 2215 defined in theadapter housing 2210. If a connector 1110 is positioned at the passage2215, then the second moveable contact section 2245 is configured toengage at least a deflection surface of the connector 1110. If a storagedevice 1130 is installed on the connector 1110, then the second contactsurface 2245 is configured to engage the contact pads 1132 of thestorage device 1130.

The third moveable contact surface 2246 is configured to selectivelyextend through the slot 2225 to engage the circuit board 2250. Forexample, the third moveable contact surface 2246 is configured to swipeagainst the printed circuit board 2250 (see FIG. 69). In someimplementations, the third contact surface 2246 may be configured toengage the circuit board 2250 when a connector 1110 is inserted into arespective passage 2215. For example, the resilient section 2244 enablesa force pushing the second section 2245 towards the slot 2225 to movethe third section 2246 upwardly through the slot 2225 and toward thecircuit board 2250.

FIGS. 64-69 illustrate the effect of inserting a fiber optic connector1110 into a port of an adapter housing 2210 including a first mediareading interface 2240 positioned at the port. The adapter housing 2210is coupled to a circuit board 1250, only a portion of which is visiblein the drawings. The first media reading interface 2240 includes atleast a first contact member 2241 positioned in a slot 2225 of theadapter housing 2210. Portions of the first contact member 2241 extendtowards the passage 2215 and portions of the first contact member 2241extend towards the circuit board 2250.

In some implementations, each media reading interface 2240 includes atleast three contact members 2241. Each contact member 2241 is positionedin a separate slot 2225. Adjacent slots 2225 are separated byintermediate walls 2229. In certain implementations, each media readinginterface 2240 includes four contact members 2241. In otherimplementations, however, each media reading interface 2240 may includegreater or fewer contact members 2241.

In the cross-sections shown in FIGS. 66 and 69, only the first contactmembers 2241 of one media reading interface 2240 is visible. Portions ofthe other contact members 2241 of the same media reading interface 2240cannot be seen in FIG. 66 since the other contact members 2241 laterallyalign with the first contact member 2241. In addition, intermediate wallsections 2229 may block the other contact members 2241 of the same orother media reading interfaces 2240 from view.

In FIGS. 64-66, one connector 1110 is partially inserted into a port atone side of a passage 2215 defined in the adapter housing 1210. A mediareading interface 2240 including at least one contact member 2241 ispositioned at a slot 2225 leading to the passage 2215. The base 2242 ofthe contact member 2241 seats in the second opening 2226 to secure thecontact member 2241 within the slots 2225 (e.g., by snapping into secondopening 2226). The first moveable contact surface 2243 extends throughthe slot 2225 and engages one of the first contact pads 2253 of thecircuit board 2250. The stationary contacts 2247 also extend through theslot 2225 and engage the first contact pad 2253 of the circuit board2250.

Inserting a connector 1110 into an adapter passage 2215 causes thedeflection surface 1159 of a connector 1110 to slide within the passage2215 towards the second moveable contact surface 2245. In the exampleshown in FIG. 66, the deflection surface 1159 of the connector 1110 hasnot yet reached the second moveable section 2245 of the contact members2241. Accordingly, the second moveable contact surface 2245 extendsthrough the first opening 2222 in the recessed surface 2221 of the slot2225 and into the passage 2215 of the adapter housing 2210. The thirdmoveable contact surface 2246 is spaced from the second contact pad 2254of the circuit board 2250. For example, the third moveable contactsurface 2246 may rest against a ledge 2223 defined by the recessedsurface 2221 in the slot 2225.

As shown in FIGS. 67-69, continuing to insert the connector 1110 causesthe deflection surface 1159 to engage and push the second moveablecontact surface 2245 out of the passage 2215. Pushing the secondmoveable contact surface 2245 out of the passage 2215 pushes the thirdmoveable contact surface 2246 away from the ledge 2223 toward thecircuit board 2250. In certain implementations, pushing the thirdmoveable contact surface 2246 away from the ledge 2223 causes the thirdcontact surface 2246 to engage (e.g., touch or wipe across) the secondcontact pad 2254 of the circuit board 2250. Accordingly, the presence ofthe connector 1110 in the passage 2215 may be detected when thedeflection surface 1159 of the connector 1110 engages the contact member2241.

In some implementations, the connector 1110 does not include a storagedevice 1130. For example, the connector 1110 may be an existingconnector that does not store physical layer information. In otherimplementations, the connector 1110 may be part of a duplex connectorarrangement in which the other connector 1110 holds the storage device1130. In other implementations, however, the connector 1110 may includea storage device 1130. In such implementations, the second contactsurface 2245 of the contact member 2241 slides or wipes across thesurface of the contacts 1132 of the storage device 1130 during insertionof the connector 1110 (see FIG. 69). When the connector 1110 is fullyinserted, a processor coupled to the circuit board 2250 can access thememory 1133 of each connector arrangement 1100 through correspondingones of the contact members 2241, 1131.

In some implementations, the connector storage device 1130 is spacedfrom the deflection edge 1159 of the connector 1110. When such aconnector 1110 is inserted into the passage 2215 of an adapter housing2210, the deflection edge 1159 engages and pushes the second moveablecontact surface 2245 against the circuit board 2250 before the secondmoveable contact surface 2245 engages the contacts 1132 of the connectorstorage device 1130. Accordingly, the presence of the connector 1110within the passage 2215 may be detected before the memory 1133 of thestorage device 1130 can be accessed.

In other implementations, at least a portion of the connector storagedevice 1130 is accessible through a recess in the deflection surface1159. In such implementations, the second contact surface 2245 of atleast one the contact member 2241 touches the storage device contacts1132 as the third moveable contact surface 2246 is being deflectedagainst the circuit board 2250. Accordingly, the presence of theconnector 1110 within the passage 2215 may be detected at approximatelythe same time that the memory 1133 of the connector storage device 1130can be accessed.

As discussed above, a processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) or othersuch equipment also can be electrically coupled to the printed circuitboard 2250. Accordingly, the processor can communicate with the memorycircuitry 1133 on the connector storage device 1130 via the contactmembers 2241 and the printed circuit board 2250. In accordance with someaspects, the processor is configured to obtain physical layerinformation from the connector storage device 1130. In accordance withother aspects, the processor is configured to write (e.g., new orrevised) physical layer information to the connector storage device1130. In accordance with other aspects, the processor is configured todelete physical layer information from the connector storage device1130. In still other implementations, the processor detects the presenceor absence of a connector 1110 in each passage 2215.

Removing the connector 1110 from the passage 2215 releases the secondmoveable contact portion 2245 of the contact member 2241, therebyallowing the third moveable contact portion 2246 to move back to theinitial position (see FIG. 66). Dropping the third moveable contactportion 2246 disengages the third contact surface 2246 from the circuitboard 2250, thereby interrupting the circuit created by the contactmember 2241. Interrupting the circuit enables a processor connected tothe circuit board 2250 to determine that the connector 1110 has beenremoved from the passage 2215.

In accordance with some implementations, dust caps 2260 can be used toprotect passages 2215 of the adapter housings 2210 when connectorarrangements 1100 or other physical media segments are not receivedwithin the passages 2215. For example, a dust cap 2260 can be configuredto fit within a front entrance or a rear entrance of each adapterpassage 2215. The dust caps 2260 are configured to inhibit the ingressof dust, dirt, or other contaminants into the passage 2215. Inaccordance with some implementations, the dust caps 2260 are configurednot to trigger the presence sensor/switch of the adapter 2210.

FIGS. 71-74 show one example implementation of a dust cap 2260 suitablefor use with any of the adapter housings 1210, 2210 disclosed herein. Inthe example shown, the dust cap 2260 includes a cover 2261 configured toblock access to a passage 1215, 2215 of an adapter housing 1210, 2210.In some implementations, the cover 2261 extends over a mouth of thepassage 1215, 2215. In other implementations, the cover 2261 is sized tofit inside the passage 1215, 2215 and to sealingly engage an innerperiphery of the passage 1215, 2215 (e.g., see FIG. 76).

A handle including a grip 2265 and a stem 2266 extend outwardly from afirst side of the cover 2261. The handle facilitates insertion andwithdrawal of the dust cap 2260 from the passage 1215, 2215. Certaintypes of dust caps 2260 include a handle that has a key member that fitswith a channel or recess in the adapter passage 1215, 2215.

An insertion member 2262 extends outwardly from a second side of thecover 2261. The insertion member 2262 is configured to fit within apassage 1215, 2215 of the adapter housing 1210, 2210. In the exampleshown, the front of the insertion member 2262 defines a lug 2268 that issized and shaped to be received within the sleeve mount arrangement 1231located in the passage 1215, 2215. Tabs 2269 extend forwardly from theinsertion member 2262 on opposite sides of the lug 2268. The tabs 2269are sized and positioned to slide over an exterior of the passage 1234defined by the sleeve mount arrangement 1231.

The insertion member 2262 includes outwardly extending ridges 2263 thatdefine recessed sections 2264 between the ridges 2263 and the cover2261. When the dust cap 2260 is inserted at a port 1215, 2215, theflexible latching hooks 1236 of the sleeve mount arrangement 1231 withinthe passage 1215, 2215 engage the recessed sections 2264 defined in theinsertion member 2262 to releasably hold the dust cap 2260 at theadapter port 1215, 2215. For example, the latching hooks 1236 may flexover the ridges 2263 of the insertion member 2262 and snap into therecessed sections 2264.

In some implementations, the dust caps 2260 are shaped and configured toavoid triggering the presence detection sensor/switch formed by themedia reading interfaces (e.g., see FIGS. 76 and 77). Accordingly,insertion of a dust cap 2260 into a passage 1215, 2215 does not triggerthe presence switch associated with the passage 1215, 2215. For example,the dust caps 2260 can be shaped and configured to inhibit engaging thesecond contact location 1245 of the contact members 1241 associated withthe respective passage 1215, 2215. In the example shown, the front endsof one or both tabs 2269 define recessed portions 2267 that taperinwardly or otherwise extend away from the contact members 1241 (seeFIG. 77).

In other implementations, the dust caps 2260 may include storage devicescontaining physical layer information. In such implementations, the dustcaps 2260 may be shaped and configured to trigger the presence switchthrough interaction with the contact members 1241 and to be read throughany media reading interfaces 1240 positioned at an adapter passage 1215,2215.

FIG. 70 shows one example implementation of a connector assembly 2500 onwhich any of the connector systems 1000, 2000 described herein can beimplemented. The example connector assembly 2500 is implemented as abladed chassis. The chassis 2500 includes a blade 2501 on which one ormore coupler assemblies 1200, 2200 may be mounted. A processor 2510 alsomay be positioned on the blade 2501. A circuit board 1250, 2250 also maybe positioned on the blade 2501 to electrically connect the couplerassembly 1200, 2200 to the processor 2510. In certain implementations, aportion of the circuit board 1250, 2250 may define a connection end 2259that is configured to connect to a network port of a data network (e.g.,see network 218 of FIG. 2). Additional details regarding bladed chassissystems can be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 13/025,750, filed Feb.11, 2011, and titled “Communications Bladed Panel System,” thedisclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

The above specification, examples and data provide a completedescription of the manufacture and use of the composition of theinvention. Since many implementations can be made without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in theclaims hereinafter appended.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A fiber optic adapter module comprising: ahousing extending from a first end to a second end, the housingincluding opposing major surfaces extending between opposing minorsurfaces and between the first and second ends, the housing defining atleast one passageway extending between the first and second ends of thehousing to define first and second ports at the first and second ends,respectively, the housing being configured to retain a fiber opticconnector at each port; a first media reading interface positioned at afirst of the major surfaces of the housing, the first media readinginterface including a plurality of contact members; and a second mediareading interface positioned at the first major surface of the housing,an orientation of the second media reading interface being flipped 180°relative to an orientation of the first media reading interface, whereina majority of the second media reading interface extends along amajority of the first media reading interface.
 2. The fiber opticadapter module of claim 1, wherein each media reading interface includesa plurality of contact members.
 3. The fiber optic adapter module ofclaim 2, wherein the plurality of contact members of each media readinginterface includes at least three contact members.
 4. The fiber opticadapter module of claim 3, wherein the plurality of contact members ofeach media reading interface includes four contact members.
 5. The fiberoptic adapter module of claim 2, further comprising a circuit boardcoupled to the housing, the circuit board having a first surfacedefining a first plurality of contact pads and a second plurality ofcontact pads, the first media reading interface being disposed at thefirst plurality of contact pads and the second media reading interfacebeing disposed at the second plurality of contact pads.
 6. The fiberoptic adapter module of claim 1, wherein the first media readinginterface is offset towards the first end of the housing relative to thesecond media reading interface.
 7. The fiber optic adapter module ofclaim 1, wherein the housing defines a plurality of passagewaysextending between the first and second ends of the housing, wherein thefirst and second media reading interfaces provide access between a firstof the passageways and an exterior of the housing.
 8. The fiber opticadapter module of claim 7, wherein a plurality of additional mediareading interfaces are positioned at the first major surface of thehousing, each of the additional media reading interfaces providingaccess between another of the passageways and the exterior of thehousing.
 9. The fiber optic adapter module of claim 8, wherein anorientation of each of the additional media reading interfaces isflipped 180° relative to an orientation of an adjacent one of theadditional media reading interfaces.
 10. The fiber optic adapter moduleof claim 7, wherein the plurality of passageways includes sixpassageways.
 11. The fiber optic adapter module of claim 1, wherein theopposing major surfaces and the opposing minor surfaces of the housingare monolithically formed.
 12. The fiber optic adapter module of claim11, wherein a mounting tab extends outwardly from each of the minorsides.
 13. The fiber optic adapter module of claim 1, wherein a secondof the major surfaces defines a keyway at each port.
 14. The fiber opticadapter module of claim 1, wherein the housing is configured to retainan SC-type fiber optic connector at each port.
 15. The fiber opticadapter module of claim 1, wherein the housing also defines a firstplurality of slots at a first major surface of the housing and a secondplurality of slots at the first major surface of the housing, each ofthe passageways being associated with a respective one of the slots ofthe first plurality and a respective one of the slots of the secondplurality.
 16. The fiber optic adapter module of claim 15, wherein thefirst plurality of slots are offset towards the first end of the housingrelative to the second plurality of slots.
 17. A fiber optic adaptermodule comprising: a housing extending from a front to a rear, thehousing including opposing end walls extending between opposing sidewalls and between the front and rear, the housing defining at least onepassageway extending between the front and the rear to define first andsecond ports at the front and the rear, respectively, the housing beingconfigured to retain a fiber optic connector at each port, the housingalso defining at least a first opening in a first of the end walls, thefirst opening leading to the passageway; a cover element having firstand second major surfaces, the cover element being configured to coupleto the housing at the first end wall to cover the first opening, thefirst major surface of the cover element defining at least one slot, atleast a portion of the slot extending through the second major surfaceof the cover element; a first media reading interface positioned in thecover element, the first media reading interface having at least a firstcontact location and a second contact location, the first media readinginterface being configured so that the second contact location isaccessible from within the passageway and the first contact location isaccessible through the slot defined in the first major surface when thecover element is coupled to the housing; and a second media readinginterface positioned at the first major surface of the housing, anorientation of the second media reading interface being flipped 180°relative to an orientation of the first media reading interface, whereina majority of the second media reading interface extends along amajority of the first media reading interface.
 18. The fiber opticadapter module of claim 17, further comprising a first circuit boardcoupled to the housing, the first circuit board extending over the firstmajor surface of the cover element so that the first contact section ofthe first media reading interface contacts the first circuit boardthrough the slot defined in the first major surface of the coverelement.
 19. The fiber optic adapter module of claim 17, furthercomprising a dust cap received at the first port, the dust cap beingconfigured to not touch the second contact location of the first mediareading interface.